Resealable packaging device and method for packaging food product

ABSTRACT

A packaging device incorporating a breathable peel/reseal film and enabling a preservation process for allowing for the distribution, storage and multiple servings of a food product, particularly perishable food product(s), and initiating and controlling the transmission rates, respiration rates or deterioration of the perishable food product(s) and thereby, maintaining good internal and external food quality and normal development of flavor and aroma characteristics. The packaging device includes a plurality of atmospheric control attributes that modulates or controls the atmosphere within the packaging device as the food product(s) respire in order to promote the extended shelf-life of the food product and the maintenance of the quality and desirable marketable characteristics of the food product. The atmospheric control attributes can include perforations that may be positioned in breathable peel/reseal film portion of the package to allow the product respiration for multiple servings without substantially altering the shelf life extension properties of the packaging device.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to the field of packaging forfood products, including perishable food products, and particularly to apackage and method of packaging perishable food products which optimizesthe food product life, provides the food product in a ready to eat form,and allows the package with breathable peel-reseal function for multipleservings.

Fruits and vegetables have been receiving considerable attention asconsumers become more health conscious. Health benefits associated withregular consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables such as blueberries,cranberries, strawberries, apple, carrots, broccoli and tomato aregenerally well recognized (Clemens, 2015; Nile & Park, 2014).

Health conscious consumers are increasingly spending more on freshproduce and are buying new value-added fresh-produce products (Heneghan,2016). Value-added fresh-produce products include fresh-cut fruits andvegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, corn, leafy greens,strawberries, blueberries, apple, grapes, cranberries etc., which areoffered for sale in a pre-packaged form. This type of value-addedbenefit, which provides the product in a Ready-to-Eat form, may allowthe consumer to consume the product while still within the package, ifbreathable peel-reseal function is added to the package.

The US fresh vegetables and fruits was valued at $104.7 billion(Grand-View-Research, 2018) and these value-added products comprise themost rapidly growing segment of the fresh produce industry as well asone of the most rapidly growing categories in the supermarket and foodservice markets. This growth is evidenced by facts, such as thatvalue-added produce represented about 17% of total produce departmentsales; value added fruits and vegetables had more than 8% and 10%increase from 2011 to 2015, respectively (Cook, 2016). Retail sales ofpackaged salads increased 8% to $3.7 billion from 2015 to 2016 (Watson,2016). Additionally, the percentage of health-conscious consumers isincreasing, as more and more consumers demand healthier, safer, andenvironmentally friendly food products. Concurrently, the consumerrecognizes the functional properties of produce, such as lycopene intomato and other anti-carcinogenic compounds in many fruits andvegetables.

In addition to increased fruit and vegetable consumption, the demand forhigh quality, variety and convenience of fresh produce products has alsoincreased (Schouten, 2017). The explosion in produce departmentofferings in supermarkets evidences this trend. For instance, the entryof premium priced greenhouse vegetable products into US supermarketsfrom Spain, Israel, The Netherlands and Canada provide an indicationthat the consumer is looking for premium quality produce and may bewilling to pay the associated premium price (Agriculture and Agri-FoodCanada, 2016). As described previously, this growing market demand hasresulted in the fresh-cut fruit and vegetable industry experiencingsignificant growth over the past few years.

One of the major factors contributing to successfully increasingconsumption of fruit and vegetables is delivering products with goodquality. Efforts to maintain the quality of lightly processed perishableproducts (fresh fruit and vegetables) throughout the processes ofdistribution and storage has focused on modifying or controlling theinternal atmospheric environment provided by the packages within whichthese products are distributed and stored (Oliveira, Abadias, Usall,Torres, Teixidó, & Viñas, 2015). The atmospheric modification whichtakes place in packages may be dependent upon several variables such aspermeability of the material of the package, respiration rate of theperishable product and temperature during distribution and storage(Ben-Yehoshua, Beaudry, Fishman, Jayanty, & Mir, 2005; Mir & Beaudry,2016). Currently, there are techniques which attempt to modify orcontrol the atmosphere within the package(s) containing these products.Typically, these controlled atmosphere packaging devices utilize regimessimilar to those of controlled-atmosphere storage. Unfortunately, thesecontrolled-atmosphere regimes may not provide optimal atmosphericconditions within the package for the various products during theirdistribution and storage, which may result in premature fermentation(degradation) of the product within. This premature fermentation mayresult in decreased shelf-life of the perishable food products which inturn may result in decreased sales of the products.

The Ready-to-Eat packaging devices mentioned above may provide asimplified meal alternative or may allow for the packaged product to beconsumed in multiple servings while still maintaining the quality withbreathable peel-reseal function. Current technology provides packagingdevices which allow the package, including the product within, to bestored without optimum package atmospheres which reduces shelf life andproduct quality. Non-breathable peel-reseal packaging may not employ anymodified atmosphere capabilities or simply employ those which arecurrently known and do not optimize product life. Therefore,fermentation (degradation) of the food product may result after ashortened product life making the product aesthetically undesirable andpossibly nutritionally compromised.

Therefore it would be desirable to provide a packaging device and methodof packaging food products, including fresh produce and other perishablefoods, which promotes atmospheric conditions within the package thatpromotes the prolonging of shelf-life of food product and themaintenance of excellent food product quality during the life-cycle ofthe packaged food product, including throughout the food productprocessing, and may also allow the food to be served in multipleofferings in situ, allowing maximum quality and nutrient retention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide abreathable, peelable and resealable film structure and/or device orcontainer able to connect with and/or thereby, utilize the breathable,peelable and resealable film structure. It is further contemplated thatthe current invention provides a resealable packaging device(s) and/orsystem(s) comprising the breathable, peelable and resealable filmstructure in connection with various rigid or flexible packagingdevices, containers and/or constructs. Still further, the currentinvention contemplates method(s) of prolonging the shelf-life of foodproducts by utilizing the resealable film structure and/or packagingdevice or system for the enclosing of food products, thereby promotingan extended life-cycle of processing and use of the food product. Othercontemplated method(s) of the current invention can provide for themanufacturing of exemplary resealable films and/or resealable packagingdevices for promoting the extended shelf-life of food product to beenclosed therein.

It is an object of the current invention in providing for the enclosureof food products within to actively and/or passively promote variousatmospheric conditions by and due to the presence of one or moreatmospheric control attributes, including without limitationperforations (micro- and/or macro-), slits, slots, micropores, and thelike. Further, by affecting atmospheric conditions, another object ofthe current invention is to support the life-cycle of food products inthe enclosure. As such, it is contemplated that an object of the currentinvention is to affect the life-cycle of the food products locatedwithin, which can include without limitation the processing, packing,handling, ripening, transporting, distribution, marketing, storing,consumption and/or such other activities that may comprise thelife-cycle of the food products located within or from an exemplaryembodiment of the current invention.

It is another object of the current invention to promote increaseddesirability in the marketplace for various food products. Furtherobjects of the current invention include increasing consumer choices,alternative food options and/or ease of food product consumption bypromoting the providing of food product in various combinations and/orready to eat forms. Additional objects of the current invention based onthe promotion of desired internal atmospheric conditions is to promoteand maintain food product quality, extend and/or prolong shelf life offood product, minimize microbial activity, enzymatic changes, affectrespiration and/or reduce decay (inhibit fermentation). Still further,the atmospheric conditions promoted by exemplary aspects of the currentinvention can promote the object of affecting the desirable and/orundesirable marketable characteristics of food product within exemplaryembodiments. It is another object of the invention to provide acost-effective quality preservation process for packing, handling,ripening, distribution, marketing, and/or consumption of food products.This can further support the object of enabling opportunities toincrease product offerings to retail and food service outlets by variousfood products manufacturers and distributors.

It is an object to promote the established protocols of packing,transport, ripening, distribution, and marketing for food products,particularly perishable food products, of the food industry by allowingthe use of flexible polymeric films, such as a polyethylene,polystyrene, polypropylene, polyester films, or combinations, thereofthat may be variously configured, such as into variously dimensionedbag(s), tray(s), roll/lid stock(s) and/or container(s), thereby reducinginterference with such protocols. Thus, construction and configurationof exemplary embodiments of the current invention encompass an on-demandflexibility and customizability which is yet another object of thecurrent invention.

It shall be understood that use of terms herein, such as “exemplary”and/or “current”; “aspects” and/or “embodiments”; “comprised” and/or“comprising”; and such other terms as may be used by those skilled inthe art, shall be and are intended to be and indicate exemplary,inclusive and non-exhaustive terms. Therefore, the description providedfor the current invention shall encompass alternatives and/or anyadditional scope as may be contemplated.

Exemplary aspects and embodiments of the resealable film structure andpackaging systems of the current invention include an RF or resealablepackaging device (RPD) comprising an RF connected to or integrated witha packaging device, wherein atmospheric control attributes, such asperforations and the like, are located in the RF and/or packagingdevice. The atmospheric control attributes can be of varying numbers,configurations, dimensions or other factors. The exemplary RF and/orpackaging systems embodiments can be of varying dimensions bothexternally and as forming an internal or enclosure space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the RF comprises a structure having anopening through at least a first part of the structure, wherein theopening is defined as less than a surface area of the structure and iscovered by a second part of the structure that is peelable from andresealable (PR) to the first part of the structure. The PR part of thestructure may comprise of single or multiple layers which are weaklyadhered to the first part of the structure by pressure sensitiveadhesive. The structure further includes one or a plurality of variouslyconstructed, configured and dimensioned atmospheric control attributes,wherein the atmospheric control attributes can be located in the firstor second part of the structure and/or in both the first and secondparts of the structure. The structure may further include a registereddie cut to guide sealing and eventual opening process at the consumerlevel.

In another exemplary embodiment, the RF comprises a five layeredstructure, wherein one side of the first layer is heat sealable to therigid or flexible component of the packaging device. The other side ofthe first layer is weakly adhered to the first side of the third layerby a weak adhesive polymer layer two. The third layer may be laminatedor bonded with a laminating agent layer four to the fifth layer suchthat layers 3 to 5 become the PR part of the RF or RPD. Prior tolaminating layers 3 and 5, layer 5 may be reverse printed. One or aplurality of variously constructed, configured and dimensionedatmospheric control attributes can be located in one or more or all ofthe layers. The structure may further include a registered die cut toguide sealing at food packing; and eventual opening process at theconsumer level.

In another exemplary embodiment, the RF comprises a five layeredstructure, wherein one side of the first layer is heat sealed (weldseal) to the rigid or flexible component of the packaging device. Theother side of the first layer is weakly adhered with pressure sensitiveadhesive layer two to the first side of the third layer. The second sideof the third layer is laminated or bonded with a laminating agent layerfour to the fifth layer such that layers 3 to 5 are the PR part of RPD.One or a plurality of variously constructed, configured and dimensionedatmospheric control attributes can be located in one or more of thelayers. The embodiment further includes a registered die cut foreventual opening process at the consumer level for PR function of PRD.

In another exemplary embodiment, the RF comprises a three-layeredstructure, wherein one side of the first layer is heat sealable to therigid or flexible component of the packaging device. The other side ofthe first layer is weakly adhered to the first side of the third layerby a weak adhesive polymer layer two. The third layer is a peelablelayer that can be peeled and resealed to the adjacent layer through theweak adhesive polymer layer two. The structure may further include aregistered die cut to guide sealing at food packing; and eventualopening process at the consumer level. Further, the first layer of theexemplary embodiment may be surface printed for tamper evidence suchthat the print is within and outside of registered die cut. The secondside of the third layer may or may not be printed. One or a plurality ofvariously constructed, configured and dimensioned atmospheric controlattributes can be located in one or more of the layers.

In another exemplary embodiment, the RF comprises a three-layeredstructure, wherein one side of the first layer is heat sealed to therigid or flexible component of the packaging device. The other side ofthe first layer, may or may not be printed and is weakly adhered to thefirst side of the third layer by a weak adhesive polymer layer two. Thethird layer is a peelable layer that can be peeled and resealed to theadjacent layer, through the adhesive polymer layer two. One or aplurality of variously constructed, configured and dimensionedatmospheric control attributes can be located in one or more of thelayers. The embodiment further includes a registered die cut foreventual opening process at the consumer level for PR function of PRD.Further, the first layer of the exemplary embodiment may be surfaceprinted for tamper evidence such that the print is placed within andoutside of registered die cut. When consumer pulls ‘pull tab’; layer twois separated from layer one such that the printed portion within theregistered die-cut does not fall in original place on resealing to layerone thus serving as proof for tamper evidence.

Further exemplary embodiments can include a packaging system comprisinga packaging device or container connected to or integrated with athree-layered resealable film structure (RF) in accordance withexemplary aspects of the current invention. Such exemplary embodimentscan further comprise atmospheric control attributes, such asmicro-perforations and the like, that can be located in the RF and/orpackaging device/container. Still further, exemplary embodiments caninclude a packaging system comprising a packaging device or containerconnected to or integrated with a five-layered resealable film structure(RF) in accordance with exemplary aspects of the current invention. Suchexemplary embodiments can further comprise atmospheric controlattributes, such as micro-perforations and the like, that can be locatedin the RF and/or packaging device/container.

In additional exemplary embodiments of the current invention, a processfor modulating the life-cycle of food product packaged in an exemplarypackaging system is provided. Still further exemplary embodiments of thecurrent invention comprise a process of packaging food product byenclosing it within an exemplary packaging system, wherein theatmospheric environment within the packaging system modulates thelife-cycle of the food product. It is an object of the current inventionto modulate packaging system atmospheric conditions comprisingdesignated levels of various gases, such as CO₂, H₂O vapor and O₂, andin addition other gases or ripening modifying agents such as C₂H₄(ethylene), C₃H₆ (propylene) or other ripening agents that can promotesynergistic interactions for retaining quality attributes and extendingshelf life throughout the life-cycle of food product enclosed inexemplary embodiments.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory onlyand are not restrictive of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is an illustration of a resealable film comprising a three-layerresealable film structure with a plurality of atmospheric controlattributes in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 1B is an illustration of the resealable film structure shown inFIG. 1A connected with a storage container forming a resealablepackaging device including an enclosure within which food product can belocated, wherein an interior environment is in communication with anexterior environment via the atmospheric control attribute(s) and can beaccessed via the opening in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe current invention.

FIG. 1C is an exploded-view illustration of the resealable filmstructure shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1D is an illustration of a three-layer resealable film structureconnected with a storage container forming a resealable packaging deviceincluding an enclosure within which food product can be located, whereinan interior environment is in communication with an exterior environmentvia a plurality of differently configured atmospheric controlattribute(s) and can be accessed via an opening in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 2A is an illustration of a resealable film structure comprising afive-layer resealable film structure with a plurality of atmosphericcontrol attributes in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2B is an illustration of the resealable film structure shown inFIG. 2A connected with a storage container forming a resealablepackaging device including an enclosure within which food product can belocated, wherein an interior environment is in communication with anexterior environment via the atmospheric control attribute(s) and can beaccessed via the opening in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe current invention.

FIG. 2C is an exploded-view illustration of the five-layer resealablefilm structure shown in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2D is an illustration of a five-layer resealable film structureconnected with a storage container forming a resealable packaging deviceincluding an enclosure within which food product can be located, whereinan interior environment is in communication with an exterior environmentvia a plurality of differently configured atmospheric controlattribute(s) and can be accessed via the opening in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 3A is an isometric illustration of a resealable film structurecomprising a five-layer resealable film structure having variouslyconfigured layers, a label and a plurality of atmospheric controlattributes in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3B is an illustration of the resealable film structure shown inFIG. 3A connected with a storage container forming a resealablepackaging device including an enclosure within which food product can belocated, wherein an interior environment is in communication with anexterior environment via the atmospheric control attribute(s) and can beaccessed via the opening in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe current invention.

FIG. 3C is an exploded-view illustration of the three-layer resealablefilm structure as shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3D is an illustration of a five-layer resealable film structure,with variously configured layers, connected with a storage containerforming a resealable packaging device including an enclosure withinwhich food product can be located, wherein an interior environment is incommunication with an exterior environment via a plurality ofdifferently configured atmospheric control attribute(s) and can beaccessed via the opening in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe current invention.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a resealable packaging device configured asa bag including a resealable film structure including a plurality ofatmospheric control attributes in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5A is an illustration of a resealable film structure configured asa lid stock, the resealable film structure comprising a resealable filmwith a plurality of atmospheric control attributes in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5B is an illustration of the resealable film structure shown inFIG. 5A connected with a storage container forming a resealablepackaging device including an enclosure within which food product can belocated, wherein an interior environment is in communication with anexterior environment via the atmospheric control attribute(s) and can beaccessed via an opening in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe current invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a method for prolonging theshelf-life of a food product within a resealable packaging device inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 7 is a table illustration showing the results of bond strengthdeterminations made for the functionality provided under Example 12 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 8 is a table illustration showing the results of bond strengthdeterminations made for the functionality provided under Example 13 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the current invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a breathable peel/reseal (resealable)film and/or membrane structure that includes at least one or moreatmospheric control attributes, features, factors and/or properties. Inaddition, the present invention provides a breathable peel/reseal(resealable) packaging device construct comprising the film and/ormembrane structure connected with or to a container or various otherstorage devices. The control attributes promote various characteristicsand/or capabilities including, without limitation, the active and/orpassive control over atmospheric conditions, including withoutlimitation, transmission and/or transmission rate(s) of gases (e.g.,CO₂, N₂, O₂ and such other gases as may be found), heat, cold, agent(s)(such as ripening agents C₂H₄ (ethylene), C₃H₆ (propylene) and others asmay be contemplated), relative humidity and/or water vapor. Thepromotional capabilities provided by the control attributes can affectthe life-cycle, in whole or part, of food product while located withinan exemplary embodiment of the current invention, which can encompassfood product processing, including any handling, packing, ripening,distribution, marketing, storing, consumption and/or such otheractivities that may be contemplated as comprising at least a part of thelife-cycle of the enclosed food product.

As will be described further herein, control features or attributes thatcan provide, affect and impact upon the promotion capabilities of thecurrent invention, may include without limitation, opening(s) and/ortransmission constructs, such as variously sized perforations or pores(e.g., macro- & micro-perforations or pores), (punch) slits/slots,vents, and/or punctures, established or located within the film(s) orlayer(s) of the RF and/or RPD structures. The control features can beformed using various technologies and/or techniques, such as laserdrilling, cutting, perforating or such other technologies and/ortechniques as are known to those skilled in the art. Additional controlsthat can impact upon the promotion capabilities of the structure(s) mayinclude, without limitation, the physical, dimensional and/or chemicalcomposition of any materials used in constructing and/or configuringexemplary embodiments of the current invention. For example, thechemical composition and/or thickness of the film(s), base film and/orvarious layers that may comprise an exemplary RF and/or RPD can impactupon the permeability and breathability provided to any exemplaryembodiment of the current invention. It is contemplated for exemplaryembodiments of the current invention that the structures, film(s) and/orlayers formed, from the one or more material(s), provide a breathabilityor O₂ transmission capability of 180 cubic centimeters per 100 squareinches per day (e.g., time period of roughly 24 hr.) or lower.Alternatively, the breathability or O₂ transmission capability may rangefrom up to 300 to 180 cubic centimeters per 100 square inches per day.The various control features, which may be understood and referred toherein as atmospheric control attributes/properties or environmentalcontrol attributes/properties, atmospheric or environmental factors orfeatures and the like, promote the advantageous capabilities, such asthe active and/or passive control over atmospheric or environmentalconditions, of the current invention.

As described and shown herein, exemplary embodiments of the currentinvention can include a breathable, resealable film structure, includingatmospheric control attributes, that is a stand-alone film structurethat can be utilized in connection with various other componentstructures, such as separate storage, container and/or packagingtechnologies and constructs. This breathable, resealable film structure,including atmospheric control attributes, can be referred to herein as a“resealable film” or “RF”. The RF can be provided as a separate,stand-alone construct and/or in connection with various storage and/orpackaging technologies and constructs, such as bags, pouches, lid/rollstock, container(s), device(s), other package(s) (collectively referredto herein as “packaging device” or “packaging devices”). Additionalexemplary embodiments of the current invention include a packagingsystem(s) that can comprise various rigid or flexible packaging devicesconnected and/or integrated with one or more RF structures. Theseresealable packaging systems can also be referred to herein as“resealable packaging device”, “RPD” and/or “resealable packagingsystem”, “RPS”. As used herein, the various terms, such as RF and/orRPD, can be understood to refer to the stand-alone breathable resealablefilm structure and/or the breathable resealable film structure inconnection with, able to be connected to or integrated with a packagingcontainer or device. Any description provided herein for the advantagesof the current invention, either the RF or RPD exemplary embodiments,shall be understood as applicable to and embodied by the other.

It is contemplated that exemplary RF and/or RPD embodiments of thecurrent invention can be utilized in exemplary method embodiments of thecurrent invention. The methods contemplated can provide prolongedshelf-life for food product when packaged within exemplary embodimentsof the current invention. Food product processing can include anyhandling, packing, ripening, distribution, marketing, storing,consumption and/or such other activities that may be contemplated as orcomprise the life-cycle of food product while located within theenclosure. The method embodiments utilize and take advantage of theimproved atmospheric control features provided by the current inventionfor optimizing internal atmospheric conditions for food product locatedwithin an enclosure.

In exemplary embodiments, the RF (resealable film) is at least part of aresealable packaging device (RPD) or storage construct that provides anenclosure within which food product can be located and stored. The RFcan be enabled by and provide various resealable technologies thatallows for the closing, opening, exposing, accessing and resealing ofthe enclosure. The RF can be closed, sealed and resealed over theenclosure as well as peeled away, detached and removed from over theenclosure. It is via the RF that the enclosure can be opened, accessedand exposed. As such, at least part of the RF can be peeled away fromand resealed to itself and/or at least part of the packaging device thatit is connected to. Thus, the RF provides for the exposing of theenclosure and closing and/or resealing of the enclosure.

In exemplary embodiments, the enclosure defines a storage or interiorspace. Thus, when the RF is closed, sealed or resealed over theenclosure interior space, within which food product can be stored, it ispromoting and/or controlling, such as by establishing, providing,enabling, maintaining and/or affecting, an interior atmosphere orenvironment within the interior space. This control is provided by theatmospheric control features that promote, affect and provide varioustransmission properties characteristics to the current invention relatedto interior atmospheric conditions (e.g., O₂ transmission rate(s), watervapor content, and the like). As will be described further herein,various types of food products with various respiration characteristics,such as low, medium or high respiration rates can be stored within theenclosures and impact upon the interior atmospheric conditions to bepromoted within the interior space of the enclosure. The enclosuresprovided by the exemplary embodiments of the current invention, viainteraction with the atmospheric control attributes, provide advantagesby affecting, improving and/or optimizing internal atmosphericconditions for food product with various respiration characteristicslocated within an enclosure.

The breathability provided by the current invention is its ability toactively and/or passively modify or affect the interior atmosphere oratmospheric conditions within the enclosure via the atmospheric controlattributes. Atmospheric conditions and/or environmental factors that maybe affected can include, without limitation, water vapor, heat, cold,relative humidity, agent(s) (e.g., ripening agents and others) and/orgases (e.g., CO₂, N₂, O₂ and such other gases as may be found). It iscontemplated that the atmospheric control attributes of the currentinvention, via the transmission and/or transmission rate(s) that can beprovided, promote the optimization of the concentration(s) ofatmospheric conditions present within the interior atmosphere of theenclosure. at least in part based on the respiration rate(s) of foodproduct located therein. Therefore, breathable peel/reseal structuresthat include one or more various atmospheric control attributes arecontemplated for the exemplary embodiments of the current invention.

The atmospheric control attribute technology may be utilized inconjunction with existing storage (bag, container, lid/roll stock,pouch) technologies or with newly constructed storage technologies. Theconfiguration, type, number and size of atmospheric control attributescan vary and can be located in any one or combination of variouscomponents, films, layers or features that may comprise exemplaryembodiments of the current invention. It is further contemplated thatthe present invention can include atmospheric control attributes locatedwithin varying and various components, film(s), layers or features ofany material that may be configured as and form any part of the currentinvention.

Exemplary embodiments of the current invention can utilize perforationtechnology for providing the atmospheric control attributes. Thecharacteristics of the perforation(s) provided, including considerationsof configuration, including volumetric configuration, number and densityof the perforations, perforation size and length, and location andpositioning within the materials, either alone or in combination mayfactor into providing the promotion and/or achievement of the optimizedatmospheric conditions for one or more environmental factors, such asO₂, CO₂, N₂, water vapor and the like, within an interior atmosphere ofan enclosure as is provided by the current invention. It is contemplatedthat the perforation technology can be employed with various packagingdevices and with packaging devices that may employ additional variousatmospheric control technologies. For example, the material (base film,layers or other components) of the RF and/or the packaging device mayprovide a desired permeability factor, breathability or O₂ transmissioncapability, such as, without limitation, 180 cubic centimeter per 100square inches per day (e.g., time period of roughly 24 hr.) or lower.

It is contemplated that the characteristics of the perforation(s) (e.g.,configuration, number, size, length, density and the like) may vary forany exemplary embodiment of the current invention. It is contemplatedthat the determination of perforation characteristics, such as the sizeand number of the perforations, for an exemplary embodiment of thecurrent invention can be based on one or more different considerations,such as shelf-life requirements, respiration rate of food product and/orthe per unit (food product) weight to surface area (RF and/or RPDconstruct) ratio. Therefore, food product quality and shelf-lifeoptimization/maximization (or less than maximum) can be affected anddetermined by the number and size of perforations employed with anyembodiment.

The perforation(s) employed with exemplary embodiments of the currentinvention can include, without limitation, macro-perforations and/ormicro-perforations. Macro-perforation size is a function of the diameterof the opening established and may be in the range of a diameter ofequal to or more than six hundred microns (600 μm), preferably from 600μm to 800 μm and more preferably from thirteen (13) to thirty (30)millimeters. Macro-perforation numbers included in exemplary embodimentsof the current invention may range from one (1) to fifty (50),preferably from two (2) to thirty (30) and more preferably three (3) tofifteen (15). The density of holes (macro-perforations) in the film canbe understood as providing or establishing, at least in part, an openarea in and for the construct that forms an RF and/or RPD of the currentinvention. Micro-perforation size is a function of the diameter of theopening established and may be in the range of ten microns (10 μm) tosix hundred microns (600 μm), more preferably from fifty microns (50 μm)to five hundred twenty microns (520 μm). Micro-perforation numbersincluded in exemplary RF and/or RPD embodiments of the current inventionmay range from one (1) to one thousand (1,000), more preferably one (1)to one hundred (100).

The density of holes (micro- and/or macro-perforations) in the film canbe understood as providing or establishing, at least in part, an openarea in and for the construct that forms an RF and/or RPD of the currentinvention. The open area can be further understood as a percent openarea, wherein the percentage reflects the relationship of the open areaprovided by the size and number of perforations and the total surfacearea of the enclosure of the RF and/or RPD. Determination of desired,required or optimal percent open area can be achieved by the abovementioned parameters but will generally be in the range of one (1) tofifty (50) perforations or holes per unit weight (i.e., gram(s),ounce(s), pound(s), and the like) of food product. The parameters can beaffected by various factors such as the properties of the food productwithin, required open area and gas transmission properties of materialsused in construction.

The open area refers to the cumulative amount of open space provided bythe perforations through the material(s) used in constructing anexemplary RF and/or RPD of the current invention. The type of foodproduct stored in an enclosure established by the current invention,respiration rate(s) and/or various other alternative considerations mayprovide at least a partial pre-determination of and for the open arearequirements to be established without departing from the scope andspirit of the present invention. Open area can be determined from thenumber and size of perforations provided within exemplary embodiments.By way of example and without limitation, three (3) micro-perforationseach with a diameter of twenty microns (20 μm) may be substantiallyequal to 9.42×10⁻¹⁰ m². Total open area is defined by the cumulativesize (area) of each the openings. Assuming the opening is circular, thesurface area for each opening is equal to πr², where r is equal to(10×10⁻⁶ m) and thus, each opening provides 3.14×10⁻¹⁰ m² of open area.Therefore, the open area provided by the three micro-perforations may besubstantially equal to 3×3.14×10⁻¹⁰ m² which equals 9.42×10⁻¹⁰ m².

It is contemplated for preferred embodiments of the current inventionthat it can include micro-perforations with diameter sizes of: (i) 75microns (75 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 4.415625×10⁻⁹m²; (ii) 90 microns (90 μm) providing a per perforation open area of6.3585×10⁻⁹ m²; (iii) 100 microns (100 μm) providing a per perforationopen area of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m²; (iv) 120 microns (120 μm) providing a perperforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (v) 130 microns (130 μm) providing aper perforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (vi) 150 microns (150 μm)providing a per perforation open area of 2×10⁻⁸ m²; (vii) 240 microns(240 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 5×10⁻⁸ m²; or (viii)such other sizes and per perforation open area as may provide theatmospheric promotional advantages. It is contemplated for exemplaryembodiments, RF per unit package and/or RPD, of the current inventionthat the total open area provided by the atmospheric control attributesmay range generally from 1.5×10⁻¹¹ m² to 1.5×10⁻⁴ m². Open area foropenings in other shapes that are not circular can be easily calculatedby those skilled in the art.

Various food products can be located within the enclosure, such as freshproduce and other perishable food products, and that within thisinternal environment or atmosphere of the enclosure (otherwise referredto herein as the “internal atmosphere”, “interior atmosphere”,“enclosure environment”, “modified environment” and/or “gaseousenvironment”) various atmospheric conditions are actively and/orpassively promoted by and due to the presence of the one or moreatmospheric control attributes (e.g., micro-perforations and the like)provided in the RF and/or RPD which can influence transmission betweenthe internal environment and an environment external thereto.

Food products can include non-perishable and/or perishable foodproducts. As used herein, the “perishable food product” would includeall foods that spoil, decay or become unsafe to consume when not storedat recommended conditions. It includes fresh cut or whole fruits, suchas strawberries, melon, pineapple, and vegetables, such as broccoliflorets, cauliflower, carrots, corn, and salads, other leafy greens andthe like which exhibit higher rates of respiration over other foodproducts. Additionally, meat products and/or other food products arecontemplated by the current invention. The food products can be frozenor non-frozen or in such states and forms as may be contemplated for usewith the current invention by those skilled in the arts.

Conventional solid (i.e., no holes) film or other packaging deviceswhich attempt to provide modified atmosphere capabilities oftenover-modify the atmosphere within the packaging resulting in(pre-mature) fermentation and reduction in shelf-life of the foodproduct. This over-modification is significantly reduced by theexemplary embodiments (RF and/or RPD) described herein and thus thecurrent invention provides significant advantage over the use ofprevious storage and/or packaging technologies.

The enclosure(s) formed by and included in the various exemplaryembodiments of the current invention, within which food product can belocated, in conjunction with the atmospheric control attributes promotesthe achievement and/or accomplishment, in part, significantly and/or intotal, of desired, improved and/or optimized internal atmosphericconditions for the food product. The promotion provided by the currentinvention can include establishing, managing, modifying, maintaining,modulating and/or affecting the atmospheric conditions in the internalatmosphere of the enclosure. The promotion provided, via the atmosphericcontrol attributes, can include the passive and/or active management oftransmission rates of one or more gases across the RF (resealable film)structure(s), thereby, at least in part, providing optimized internalatmospheric conditions. As such, the promotion provided by the currentinvention also allows for the optimizing of the internal atmosphericconditions, at least in part, based on, in synergy with and/or for thebenefit of the food product located within the environment of theenclosure. For example, the current invention can promote thesynergistic interaction of environmental factors, such as but notlimited to CO₂, N₂, O₂, ripening agent(s), and H₂O Vapor, within anenclosure. The RF and/or RPD promotes internal atmospheric conditions,such as the gaseous concentrations/conditions, within the internalenvironment allowing the current invention to establish and maintainoptimized and/or desired atmospheric conditions for longer periods oftime than that which had been made possible by any other technologies ortechniques previously known in the art. These capabilities are providedfor as long as possible within the enclosure, as described herein below,throughout the life-cycle of the food product therein.

To achieve and/or accomplish desired internal atmospheric conditionsthroughout the life-cycle of food product located within an enclosure ofthe current invention, internal environmental/atmospheric conditionsthat can be promoted include, without limitation, the concentrations ofvarious gases and conditions, such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen,other volatile gases and agents, relative humidity and/or water (H₂O)vapor concentrations and/or temperature. In exemplary embodiments, thecurrent invention provides atmospheric conditions within an enclosurewherein the concentrations of various gases and conditions are at leastsignificantly within identified ranges and/or tolerances, such as lowoxygen and high carbon dioxide regimes. Transmission rates of variousgases across the RF (resealable film) structure(s) of the currentinvention can be affected by various factors, such as the percent openarea that determines the interaction between the number and size ofperforations (e.g., macro- and/or micro-perforations) such that thenumber and size may be selected to achieve, at least for some period oftime, an optimized interior environment of an enclosure. Exemplaryatmospheric conditions provided by transmission rates of atmosphericcontrol attributes employed for exemplary embodiments of the currentinvention may comprise an O₂ content of 0.5% to 20%, >0.5% and/or >2%but <15%; a CO₂ content of 1% to 25%, >2% and/or >5% but <15%; and arelative humidity (RH) equal to or greater than 60% and/or 70% to 100%or such other ranges as may optimize an internal atmosphere for aparticular food product located in an enclosure of an exemplaryembodiment herein. Still further, the current invention contemplates thepromotion of transmission rates whereby the interior environment maypreferably comprise an O₂ content of ≥0.5%, CO₂ content of ≥1% andrelative humidity of ≥60%. Still further, the current inventioncontemplates the promotion of transmission rates whereby the interiorenvironment of the enclosure comprises a preferred ratio of CO₂ to O₂ranging from 1:1 to 50:1 or 1:1 to 1:50 or such other ranges as mayoptimize an internal atmosphere for a particular food product located inan enclosure of an exemplary embodiment herein. The ratio may have ahigher or lower ratio factor as determined by the respiration needs ofthe food product or desired design characteristics of the bag.Therefore, the ratio may vary, and the interior atmosphere may have ahigher or lower CO₂ and/or O₂ concentration(s) without departing fromthe scope and spirit of the present invention.

The optimizing of desired internal atmospheric conditions within theenclosure, more particularly within a closed enclosure, provided by thecurrent invention also promotes and maintains food product quality,extends and/or prolongs shelf life of food product, minimizes microbialactivity, minimizes enzymatic changes, affects respiration and/orreduces decay (inhibits fermentation). Still further, the atmosphericconditions provided by the current invention promotes the marketablecharacteristics of food product within the enclosure which are thoseattributes of the food products that may or can be perceived and caninclude, without limitation, color, smell, sound, feel and/or taste.

The marketable characteristics and/or sensory attributes that arecontemplated as capable of being perceived and recognized can include,but need not be limited to, sensory recognition such as visualperception, olfactory perception, auditory perception, touch perceptionand/or taste perception. Therefore, the perception of one or morerecognizable attributes can include color(s) that can be seen, odor(s)that can be smelled, sound(s) that can be heard, texture(s) that can befelt and/or flavor(s) that can be tasted. Any one or combination ofmarketable characteristics may be perceived, sensed, managed,maintained, suppressed and recognizable, as described herein for thecurrent invention and/or contemplated by those skilled in the art.

It is further contemplated that the current invention may enable theperception and/or recognition of sensory attributes that can beunderstood as desirable marketable characteristics or undesirablemarketable characteristics. Desirable marketable characteristics can beunderstood as those attributes that when perceived are generallyrecognized as promoting the quality and/or desirability of a foodproduct. Undesirable marketable characteristics can be understood asthose attributes that when perceived are generally recognized asdecreasing the quality and/or desirability of a food product. Theperception of desirability or undesirability based on recognition of oneor more attributes, such as color(s) that can be seen, odor(s) that canbe smelled, sound(s) that can be heard, texture(s) that can be feltand/or flavor(s) that can be tasted, may comprise or be identifiable asone or more indicators that may be associated with an attribute(s) andmay vary for each instance of the current invention and food productlocated within an enclosure. These identifiable indicators may beunderstood as providing a designation in support of the desirabilityand/or undesirability of a food product located within an exemplaryembodiment of the current invention. For example, one indicator may befor designating a desired, marketable color/color stages. Thecolor/color stages may comprise one or more specific numbers or anumbers range, such as one (1) to one hundred (100), or any other rangedesignation as may be associated with any particular color/color stages.In one instance the number indicator may be recognized as similar to orfalling within a desirable designation(s) and therefore indicate adesirable marketable characteristic or attribute. It is thereforecontemplated that color/color stages indications for the perishable foodproduct packaged within the current invention that are dissimilar to aspecific desired number designation or fall outside the identifiednumber range may be recognized as an indication of an undesirablemarketable characteristic or attribute.

The current invention promotes increased desirability in the marketplacefor various food products while packaged in the enclosure by providingan improved, cost-effective quality preservation process for improvingfood product utility and quality during packing, handling, ripening,transporting, distributing, marketing, and/or consumption. Notappreciably delaying the onset of ripening to achieve desired marketablecharacteristics and delaying further ripening post-desired marketablecharacteristics are benefits provided by the current invention andrecognizes the commercial importance of providing food products withdesirable and expected marketable characteristics and sensoryattributes. For example, the initiation and control of the ripeningprocess for perishable food products can have a significant impact onthe preservation and quality of a food product. This can be criticallyimportant for medium to high-respiring and climacteric fruits (i.e.,fruits that produce and respond to a ripening-related gas, such as theripening hormone ethylene). Thus, while the current invention canpromote consumer-preferred eating qualities of food products, includinguniform color and other sensory attributes, it is further contemplatedthat the onset of undesirable marketable characteristics, such asdiscoloration, off-putting odors and/or undesired flavor notes and/orunwanted textures, can be delayed and/or inhibited. The currentinvention, by not appreciably delaying the ripening process to desirablemarketable characteristics (i.e., desired stages of appearance, color,sound, texture, smell and/or taste), and also providing appreciabledelay in ripening beyond or post such stages of desirable marketablecharacteristics provides a cost-effective way to extend shelf-life withimproved quality preservation technologies and techniques.

The RF either alone or as part of an RPD may be constructed andconfigured in various manners utilizing various processes, technologies,techniques, materials, either alone or in combination (composite), andformed from one or more films, components and/or layers. As discussedherein, it is generally understood that the materials used inconstructing the exemplary film(s) and layer(s) of the current inventioncan be of a flexible, polymeric film (plastic) nature. Any of thevarious configurations that may be given an RF provides all thefeatures, advantages and capabilities described herein for the currentinvention.

As such, exemplary configurations for various exemplary embodiments mayinclude (i) a heat sealable layer or component (also referred to hereinas a “base film”, “first layer” or “first flexible film”), (ii) adefined opening, (iii) a peelable layer or component (also referred toherein as a “peelable film”, “peelable layer” or “second flexible film”)and (iv) atmospheric control attributes. Various other components asdescribed and contemplated by those skilled in the art may be includedwithout departing from the scope and spirit of the current invention.

Contemplated exemplary embodiments for an RF and/or RPD can comprise afirst layer including an opening, wherein a second peelable layer thatcovers the opening is connected to the first layer. The second peelablelayer can be peeled away from and then resealed to the first layer. Inaddition, an RF and/or RPD, can comprise a first layer including aregistered die-cut for opening, wherein a third peelable layer thatcovers the die-cut opening is connected to the first layer by anadhesive second layer. The adhesive layer can be a pressure sensitiveadhesive. The third peelable layer can be peeled away from and thenresealed to the first layer.

In additional exemplary embodiments, an RF and/or RPD, comprises a firstlayer including a registered die-cut for opening, wherein a peelablethird layer that covers the die-cut opening is connected to the firstlayer. The peelable third layer is connected to the first layer by anadhesive layer second layer, such as a pressure sensitive adhesivelayer. A fifth layer, which can be designed for printing, is connectedto the peelable third layer by a laminate adhesive fourth layer. Thepeelable third layer, in connection with the fifth layer, can be peeledaway from and then resealed to the first layer. The first layer iscapable of being printed on and including various designs.

It is contemplated that the base (plastic) film is of a heat sealabledesign allowing it to be sealed and/or connected to another surface.Such other surfaces can include, without limitation, a surface of acontainer, device and/or package. The heat-sealing process andmethodology creates a weld seal on application of heat with foodpackaging container. The heat seal is substantially stronger than thepressure sensitive adhesive seal created by application of pressuresensitive adhesive between base film and peelable film layers of theinvention. It is contemplated that the RF, including the various layers,may be comprised of similar or different materials than that of apackaging device to which it may be connected or integrated with intoforming the RPD.

The opening is preferably defined in the base film or first layer butmay be defined in any component or layer as may be contemplated. Thedefinition or construction of the opening can employ various processes,technologies and/or techniques such as scoring with mechanical or lasermethodologies in and of the base film. It is further contemplated thatthe first layer may be cut using various technologies and techniques,such as being die-cut, water jet cut, ultra-sonic cut, laser drilled,and other techniques known to those skilled in the art to any desiredshape and thereby forming an opening. The scoring or cut may be madeonce the layers of the RF and/or RPD are created, wherein peeling thepeelable layer on the RF and/or RPD exposes the opening, typicallydefined in and on the first layer or base film, while removing portionsof the first layer with the peelable layer. It is also contemplated thatthe definition of the opening may be made in a partial manner. Thus,exemplary embodiments may include a defined opening with one or moreedges not cut or where at least a section of one or more edges is notcut and such non-cut edges or edge sections anchor the peelable layerwhen peeled away from the first layer and, as such, are not removed fromthe opening when the peelable layer is peeled away. Alternatively, thecut may be made on the first layer followed by the weak adhesion of thepeelable layer, wherein peeling the peelable layer on the RF and/or RPDexposes the opening on the first layer, without removing portions of thefirst layer with the peelable layer. Where the base film is one layer orincludes two or more layers it is understood that the definition of theopening is established through each and all layers allowing each layerto be part of the forming of an opening during peeling. The definitionof the opening can be configured with any desired shape to allow formingof an opening during peeling.

In preferred embodiments, it is contemplated that a base film of thecurrent invention can be variously configured and/or constructed toinclude, without limitation, (1) a single film layer or multilayerscoextruded together (2) two or more film layers bonded together. Thebase films may further be coated with heat sealable polymers. Inpreferred embodiments, it is contemplated that a peelable film of thecurrent invention can be variously configured and/or constructed toinclude, without limitation, (1) a single film layer; (2) two or morefilm layers bonded together or (3) two or more film layers laminatedand/or adhered together. The number of layers may vary in anycombination, from two to three, four or five or more layers. Layers maybe connected to one another directly or indirectly. The connection ofthe layers can be established using various techniques and technologies,including the use of adhesive materials, heat sealing or other materialsand means known by those skilled in the art.

The structure of any of the breathable (composite) peel/reseal film (RFand/or RPD packaging system embodiments) of the invention may include apeelable layer that is continuous throughout a structure or registeredto only a certain preferred area of the structure. For instance, it iscontemplated that the peelable layer can be between 5% to 100%; 10% to90%; 20% to 80%; 25% to 75% or such other percentage as contemplated ofthe total area of the RF and/or RPD.

Various construction processes, technologies and techniques can be usedin producing any of the films, components and/or layers of the currentinvention. For example, construction of the single layer base filmand/or peelable film configurations can employ extrusion processes,technologies and techniques whereby the single layer is extruded.Further, construction of the multiple layer base film and/or peelablefilm configurations can employ co-extrusion processes, technologies andtechniques whereby the multiple layers are bonded together during theextrusion process and extruded as a single film construct. It is furthercontemplated for the construction of multiple layer peelable filmconfigurations that it can employ processes, technologies and techniqueswhereby the multiple layers are produced and then are laminated and/oradhered together to form a single film construct.

The RF and/or RPD can be variously shaped, configured and provided as aweb, bag, tray, lid stock, device, container or other storageconfiguration, for at least partially and in a resealable mannerencompassing a food product within the enclosure. It is contemplatedthat the RF can include one or more various secondary shapes configuredin any manner and located at various positions. For example, one or morestructures, such as a tab or pull, can be positioned on an outer edge ofthe peelable film in a manner that promotes the peelable functionality.As described above, the RPD and/or RF form an enclosure within whichfood product can be located. The enclosures provided by the exemplaryembodiments of the RF and/or RPD promote and provide improved andoptimized internal atmospheric conditions for food product locatedtherein.

An RF can be formed as a roll/lid-stock and/or film capable ofconnecting with a packaging device. The finished roll/lid-stock and/orfilm may have various dimensional characteristics, such as a lengthdimension that can range from five hundred (500) feet to two thousand(2,000) feet and a width dimension that can range from three (3) inchesto sixty (60) inches. In the alternative, the RF and/or RPD may beconfigured as a film having length and width dimensions ranging from oneor more centimeters or meters and/or one or more inches or feet. Theheight or thickness dimension for various configurations including,without limitation, a roll/lid-stock, film and/or tray can range from0.5 mil to eight (8) mil. A packaging device, to which theroll/lid-stock and/or film can be connected, can have varyingconfigurations and/or dimensional characteristics. For instance, thepackaging device may be formed in the shape of a bowl, roundedcontainer, square, rectangle and/or such other forms as may becontemplated that enable the establishment of an enclosure in accordancewith exemplary embodiments of the current invention. The materials forsuch RPD may include but not limited to polyethylene (PE), polypropylene(PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), amorphous polyethyleneterephthalate (APET), crystalline polyethylene terephthalate (CPET),glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG), polystyrene (PS) andCompostable and recyclable materials. The RPD may comprise of 100%virgin, 100% recyclable or a combination of virgin and recyclablematerials. The length, width and/or height (thickness) dimensions forany packaging device and/or RPD of the current invention can varysignificantly from millimeters, centimeters and/or meters to inchesand/or feet.

By way of example, an RPD can be formed from film as a bag includingand/or connected with an RF configured as a part of the bag construct.The percent area of the bag construct provided by the RF can varysignificantly, such as from 5% to 50%. The bag may have a width rangingfrom 50 to 500 millimeters and a length ranging from 100 to 700millimeters. Bags can include various additional component features,such as gusseting on one or more sides which may comprise an individualwidth ranging from 20 to 100 millimeters. The dimensionalcharacteristics of the bag construct define an enclosure (opening) spacewithin the interior within which food product can be located. The RF islocated proximally with the enclosure to provide an enclosure that canbe opened and closed. The RF can be peeled away from the film constructof the bag, thereby allowing access into the interior space of the bagand closed by resealing/re-connecting the RF with and/or to the filmconstruct of the bag.

As described herein, the connection of the base film with the peelablefilm can be established using various techniques and technologies.Preferably, the connection is made in a resealable manner including theuse of adhesive materials. All aspects, including without limitation thetype and compositional characteristics, of adhesive material used canvary so long as the functional peel and reseal capabilities are stillbeing provided. It is contemplated that various different types ofadhesives or other sealants, such as laminates or other materials andmeans known by those skilled in the art can be employed to provide theconnection and functionality for the different films and layers of thecurrent invention.

The adhesive layer contemplated for use by the contemplated embodimentsabove can be formed utilizing various adhesives and/or compoundsincluding, without limitation, heat sensitive adhesive(s), pressuresensitive adhesive(s) and the like, as may be contemplated. Stillfurther, the adhesive layer can be formed using adhesives with variousproperties and/or characteristics, such as strong and/or weak adhesivecharacteristics and the like. The structure of any of the exemplaryembodiments may include one or more adhesive layers having variousphysical characteristics including, without limitation, the thickness ofthe adhesive materials used in constructing the layer(s). For instance,it is contemplated that the adhesive layer(s) of any exemplary RF and/orRPD embodiment can be constructed having a material thickness rangingfrom 0.01 to 3.0 mil, more preferably from 0.1 to 1.0 mil. Further, anadhesive layer can be provided having a material thickness of 0.11 mil,0.51 mil or 0.57 mil. Alternative adhesives and thicknesses arecontemplated for use by the current invention.

Given the identified specifications above for the adhesive layers thatmay comprise various exemplary embodiments of the current invention, itis contemplated that the adhesive used in any of the adhesive layers mayhave a total adhesive (TA) as measured in weight/unit area (g/m²). TheTA can range from 1 to 100 g/m² and more preferably from 5 to 70 g/m².In preferred embodiments, the TA can be 34.42 g/m², 10.17 g/m² or 65.50g/m².

As used herein pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) refers to adhesivesthat require pressure to adhere to the substrate (film or foil) of anyof the non-adhesive layers that are contemplated as part of an exemplaryembodiment of the current invention. PSAs may include varioushydrophilic, super-hydrophilic and/or other similarly affinity basedsubstances, such as acrylic polymers in water, or various hydrophobic,super-hydrophobic, anhydrous substances and/or other similarly affinitybased substances, such as acrylic polymers in a petroleum based solutionor solvents; Styrene-block copolymers (SBC) which include but notlimited to, for example, polystyrene-polyisoprene-polystyrene (SIS) andpolystyrene-polybutadiene-polystyrene (SBS),polystyrene/ethylene-propylene/styrene (SEPS) andpolystyrene/ethylene-butylene/styrene (SEBS) or blends of one or more ofSBCs and SBCs. Various acrylic polymers contemplated for use cancomprise, without limitation, one or more of Acrylic acid, Acrylic acid,2 ethylhexyl ester, Acrylic acid, 2-hydroxypropyl ester, Acetic acid,vinyl ester, Methacrylic acid, methyl ester or2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one. Other PSAs may include rubber, syntheticthermoplastic elastomer, silicone-based adhesives or other materials asmay be contemplated by those skilled in the art. It is contemplated thatany of the various adhesive materials may also include additionalcomponents, such as with or without tackifiers. Adhesive formulation(s)may further include antioxidants, such as 2,6-Di-tert.-butyl-p-cresoland the like, and/or hydrophilic and/or super-hydrophilic additives. Itis further contemplated that for any of the various adhesive(s)formulations, which may be utilized for the adhesive layer(s) inexemplary embodiments, they may include, have added to them or be incombination with oils, plasticizers, surfactants and/or various otheradditives.

It is contemplated that the adhesive is applied and/or coated onto oneor more surfaces of the material configuration of one or more of thenon-adhesive layers as described herein for providing the adhesivelayer. The method, techniques and/or technologies used in and forproviding the adhesive layer may vary as contemplated by those skilledin the art. As has been described herein, the adhesive can be applied toa non-adhesive layer that provides a permeability factor ranging fromhigh to medium to low and other various compositional characteristics asare contemplated.

For the current invention, the composition of the adhesive utilized forthe adhesive layers of the various exemplary embodiments of an RF and/orRPD can provide a rate of water vapor movement (also referred to hereinas “moisture vapor transmission rate” or “MVTR”). As such, the adhesivesmay provide an adhesive atmospheric control attribute. For embodimentswherein low respiring fresh produce products are to be packaged,water-based PSAs are preferable. For water-based PSAs when used inpackaging devices that enclose medium to high respiring fresh produceproducts, the accumulation of condensate interacts with water-based PSAsand as a result a white ring is formed around the score line of peelablelayer. On opening the peelable lid, the water-based adhesive getsexposed to oxygen which turns the PSA into white sticky glue and thus,the package becomes unattractive for marketing of the product.Therefore, for embodiments wherein medium to high respiring freshproduce products are to be packaged, partially water vapor permeable orwater vapor permeable PSAs are preferred in conjunction with atmospherecontrol attributes.

The synthesis and use of PSA materials as an adhesive that is employedin forming an adhesive layer(s) for exemplary embodiments of the currentinvention provides a significant advantage to the current invention overthe prior art. For various reasons, such as described above, it hastypically been an accepted standard that water-based adhesives areundesired and/or unacceptable in forming packaging devices for respiringfood products, such as the RFs and/or RPDs that are provided by thecurrent invention. Thus, the MVTR provided by the current invention canbe a significant improvement over currently employed techniques andtechnologies, as will be described further herein. In addition, the useof these types of adhesive(s) and adhesive layer(s) allows theirproduction or synthesis through the use of methods, techniques andtechnologies that have not been typically employed to date in theindustry, such as synthesis by emulsion polymerization, or such othermethods, techniques and technologies which can introduce water into anadhesive.

Transmission of water vapor through an adhesive material can be measuredin accordance with the procedure described in ASTM E96, with somemodification. In accordance with this procedure, the test methods arelimited to specimens not over 1 and ¼ in. (32 mm) in thickness. In this“Cup method”, 10 ml of water is added to the cup and the sample to betested is sealed to the open mouth of the cup in such a manner that thedish mouth defines the area of the specimen exposed to the vaporpressure in the dish. In this case where the test material is anadhesive, it may be coated onto a highly permeable backing, e.g., anonwoven fabric, for support. The assembly is placed in a controlledatmosphere at a temperature of 40° C. and relative humidity of 20%. Thedifference between the relative humidity inside the cup and the relativehumidity outside the cup causes water to diffuse through the testmaterial. Periodic weighing determines the rate of water vapor movementthrough the test material. Water vapor permeability for the testmaterial(s), in this example the adhesive, may be calculated andexpressed as grams water vapor per 100 square inches per mil per 24hours and the water vapor transmission is expressed in grams per 100square inches per day.

The MVTR for an adhesive can be characterized as providing a water vaporimpermeable, partially water vapor permeable or water vapor permeableadhesive to any of the embodiments shown and described herein of an RFand/or RPD. Water vapor impermeable can mean no measurable water vaportransmission through the adhesive takes place; partially water vaporimpermeable adhesive can mean that a water vapor transmission rate of0.001 to 100 grams per 100 square inches per day is provided; and awater vapor permeable adhesive can mean that a water vapor transmissionrate of greater than 100 grams per 100 square inches per day isprovided.

The atmospheric control attributes, such as the perforations and thelike described herein, can interact synergistically with the adhesiveatmospheric control attributes to improve the PSA performance for anexemplary RF and/or RPD of the current invention. As such, the totalopen area being provided by the atmospheric control attributes, that atleast in part promote the optimization of internal atmosphere conditionsfor an exemplary embodiment of the current invention, may interactsynergistically with the adhesive(s) of the adhesive layer(s) to furtherpromote optimization and overcome undesired characteristics of theadhesive(s) as have been described or may be contemplated. For instance,a water based adhesive, which may otherwise fail to support or allow thepromotion of desired internal atmospheric conditions that is provided bythe current invention due to its solubility in respiratory packagecondensate, may be acceptable for a high respiring food product (i.e.,produce) when used in conjunction with appropriate atmospheric controlattributes, such as macro-perforations, providing a desired total openarea. For similar reasons, in an alternative embodiment, partially waterbased adhesive, which may otherwise fail to support or allow thepromotion of desired internal atmospheric conditions that is provided bythe current invention due to its partial solubility in respiratorypackage condensate, may be acceptable for high respiring food product(i.e., produce) when used in conjunction with appropriate atmosphericcontrol attributes, such as micro-perforations, providing a desiredtotal open area. In another alternative embodiment, water resistantadhesive, which may otherwise fail to support or allow the promotion ofdesired internal atmospheric conditions that is provided by the currentinvention due to its negative impact on breathability properties, of therespiring food package may be used in conjunction with appropriateatmospheric control attributes, such as micro-perforations, providing adesired total open area.

For food products that can lead to the formation of free-moisturecondensation in a package, including within enclosures of exemplaryembodiments of the current invention, due to a medium to high foodproduct respiration rate(s), it may be preferred to include atmosphericcontrol attributes in combination with the adhesive atmospheric controlattributes that promote the improved transmission of moisture therebyreducing potential free-moisture condensation in the package. Thepromotion of an improved MVTR is provided by the atmospheric controlattributes working in conjunction with water vapor impermeable andpartially water vapor permeable adhesives being utilized for theexemplary RF and/or RPD. When water permeable adhesives are employed itis contemplated that exemplary configurations for the current inventionmay include a limited number, including without limitation none, ofatmospheric control attributes. Therefore, it is contemplated thatexemplary embodiments of the RF and/or RPD may employ, either alone orin any combination, one or more atmospheric and/or adhesive atmosphericcontrol attributes in order to promote atmospheric conditions within anenclosure storing food product and provide all the advantages of thecurrent invention.

The solubility for an adhesive can be characterized as providing arespiratory condensate (water) soluble, partially respiratory condensate(water) soluble or respiratory condensate (water) resistant to any ofthe embodiments shown and described herein of a resealable packagingdevice. Respiratory condensate (water) resistant adhesive can mean novisual degradation or color change of adhesive takes place whenmicro-perforated RPD with high respiring product such as rocket salad isheld at 5° C. for 25 days; partially respiratory condensate (water)soluble adhesive can mean some visual degradation or color change ofadhesive takes place when micro-perforated RPD with high respiringproduct such as rocket is held at 5° C. for 15 days; respiratorycondensate (water) soluble adhesive can mean visual degradation or colorchange of adhesive takes place when micro-perforated RPD with highrespiring product such as rocket is held at 5° C. for 5 days.

The current invention further promotes a decreased risk of potentialcontamination of food product. The risk of potential contamination offood product stored in storage devices or containers is a critical issuefor the food industry. The risk of potential contamination can come froma variety of different sources and may present various undesirableadditives, either alone or in combination, for interaction with storedfood product. One such source can be the contamination risk presented bythe degradation of the materials employed in constructing the storagedevices or containers within which food products are stored. Thedegradation of these materials can occur through interaction with one ormore degradation factors and can result in the release of the variouscomponents or properties that comprise the materials, which may theninteract with a food product. The components or properties released cancomprise, additives, surfactants, tackifiers, agents, various otherpotential compounds and the like.

In addition to the many other advantages provided by the currentinvention, it is also the case that the current invention providesmaterial(s) degradation control attributes. These attributes promoteincreased consumer safety and confidence in food product options storedwithin enclosures provided by the current invention by decreasing thedegradation of water-based adhesives and, thereby, reducing thepotential risk of contamination of food product when stored withinexemplary embodiments. The material(s) degradation control attributes,which can be similar in all respects to the atmospheric controlattributes or provided in various different configurations andpositions, promote the optimization of water vapor content, condensatecontent and/or water content (collectively referred to herein as“moisture level(s)”) within the enclosure storing the respiring foodproduct. This optimization is typically a decrease, which can range fromextreme, to significant, to influence, to minor and other affects as maybe contemplated, in the moisture level(s) present within the enclosure.It is contemplated that these degradation control attributes canalternatively provide for a modulated and controlled increase in themoisture level(s), typically to establish and maintain a moisturelevel(s) within an acceptable range based on a desired MVTR. Thepromoted decrease and/or increase in moisture level(s) and, thereby,MVTR(s) can operate in synergy with the advantageous promotion of thevarious other atmospheric conditions as described herein for the currentinvention. The promoted influence on moisture level(s), directly andindirectly, can further promote and impact upon any water based adhesiveby preventing, terminating, decreasing, reducing, retarding/slowing,and/or otherwise providing a modulating or controlling influence overthe degradation or rate of degradation of any water based adhesive thatis employed in exemplary embodiments of the current invention. Thus, thedegradation control attributes promote an increased consumer confidenceand safety level in a food product stored within an enclosure providedby the current invention by promoting a decreased risk of material(s)degradation and exposure of the food products to any contaminants whilestored within an enclosure provided by the current invention.

This total MVTR control provided by the current invention promotesdesirable atmospheric conditions within the resealable packaging deviceand thereby provides all the advantages of the current invention. Theseadvantages include the promotion of desirable marketablecharacteristics, significantly reduced deterioration for longer periodsof time and prolonged shelf-life for the food product. Packaging devicesthat lack the MVTR controls of the current invention can fail to provideany of the advantages of the current invention and thereby the foodproduct quality can be significantly deteriorated, the observationand/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics can be seenearlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life can be significantlyreduced. All these failures can have a significantly negative impactupon the marketable characteristics and, therefore, potential commercialsuccess for any packaged food product and, as such, may have asignificant negative impact upon the choices, variety and qualityprovided to consumers of food products.

It is contemplated that for adhesive layer construction and function itis useful to have the high and almost similar surface energy on sealableand peelable layer sides to which PSA (i.e., water based and/or waterimpermeable or partially water impermeable) is applied. The surfaceenergy of the package layers to which PSA is applied can be from 30 to70 dynes/cm², more preferably 35 to 60 dynes/cm². In addition, the bondstrength properties of the adhesive layer are a factor in constructionand configuration. Details of the bond strength are shown in examples 12and 13 of this invention. The adhesive bond strength may be from 0.1 to2.5 lbs/inch, more preferably from 0.2 to 2.0 lbs/inch.

The bonding of the adhesive layer(s) to the non-adhesive layer(s) (i.e.,flexible and breathable plastic films) may be affected by modifying anysurface, or a partial amount thereof, of the non-adhesive layer(s) byapplying a corona treatment, through a plasma processing or such othertechniques and technologies as are contemplated by those skilled in theart. It is contemplated that various components, such as surfactants,release agents and the like, can be added to any adhesive and/oradhesive layer utilized in providing exemplary embodiments of thecurrent invention. Still further, it is contemplated that variousadhesive formulations that promote the maintenance of an adhesive's“tack” in cooler or higher temperatures and/or temperature ranges may beused for and without departing from the scope and spirit of the presentinvention.

Use of a weak adhesive polymer layer covering the entire surface area ofa side of the peelable layer is contemplated. As used herein, the “weakadhesive polymer layer” comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive. Theweak adhesive polymer layer selectively covers a percentage of thesurface area of a side of the peelable layer that is less than the totalsurface area, of the RF and/or RPD. For example, the adhesive layer maycover 0.1% to 50% of the surface area of the peelable layer. In furtherembodiments, the adhesive (weak polymer) layer is selectively applied toa side along the edges of the peelable layer or at specific edges of thepeelable layer covering a percentage of the surface area necessary toallow peel/reseal functionality and utility of the current invention.

The structure of any of the exemplary embodiments may include one ormore non-adhesive layers, such as the base film/layer and/or peelablelayer, having various physical characteristics including, withoutlimitation, the thickness of the materials used in constructing thelayer(s). For instance, it is contemplated that the base film or heatsealable layer of any exemplary RF and/or RPD embodiment can beconstructed having a material thickness ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 mil,more preferably from 0.5 to 2.5 mil. Further, the peelable layer andother layers utilized in forming exemplary RF and/or RPD embodiments canbe constructed having a material thickness ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 mil,more preferably between 0.5 and 2.5 mil. Still further, a peelable layercan be provided having a material thickness 1.02 mil, 1.0 mil or 2.23mil. Alternative thicknesses for non-adhesive layers are contemplatedfor use by the current invention.

It is contemplated that any non-adhesive layer can be established as asingle component layer or with two or more component layers and that thecomponent layers may be of similar or different compositionalcharacteristics. Given the identified specifications above fornon-adhesive and/or adhesive layers that may comprise various exemplaryembodiments of the current invention, it is contemplated that the RF mayhave a total thickness ranging from 1.0 to 8.0 mil. In preferredembodiments, the RF total thickness ranges from 2.0 to 5.0 mil. In otherpreferred embodiments, the RF total thickness ranges from 2.25 to 2.35mil. In additional preferred embodiments, the RF total thickness rangesfrom 4.00 to 4.25 mil.

Material(s) used in constructing any exemplary embodiments hereindescribed can have various properties and/or composition characteristicsand/or qualities. The physical composition of an exemplary RF and/or RPDcan include, but is not necessarily limited to, mechanical propertiessuch as thickness, tensile strength, puncture resistance, laserabsorption properties and such other properties as contemplated by thoseskilled in the art. For example, tensile strength may vary to promoteimproved commercial performance, such as lasting longer and/or reducingtime, cost and/or waste in the construction and configuration of theexemplary embodiments of the current invention. The chemical compositioncan include, but not be limited to, the type of materials, polymer andadditives used in manufacturing the layers.

Materials used can include one or more polymeric base films and/orstock. Other material(s) as contemplated by those skilled in the art maybe used in constructing exemplary embodiments. It is contemplated thatthe films, components and/or layers (“films”) used for any embodimentand/or component of the current invention may be any one of orcombination of polymer groups such as polyalkenes (e.g.,polyethylene—low density, low linear density, high density; polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET), etc.),polyvinyls (e.g., polypropelene, poly-propylene (PP)), polystyrenes(e.g., polyvinyl chloride), polysiloxanes (e.g., silicone rubber), andpolydiens (e.g., natural rubber). Further, these films may be extrudedfrom a single polymer and/or blends of various polymers where eachpolymer performs a specific function, such as contributing permeability,strength, transparency, sealability, or machineability, to meet specificproduct requirements. Similarly, the material(s) of the films may beprocessed using various technologies and treatment applications, such aslamination, to provide the packaging device with specific properties andfor achieving particular configurations.

The films employed for the RF and/or RPD structures can be composite,wherein at least one layer or component of the structure is different incomposition including without limitation, physical or chemicalcomposition, than the other layers thereby forming a breathablecomposite peel/reseal structure. The construction and/or configurationof a breathable composite peel/reseal structure can be similar to theconstruction of the exemplary RF and/or RPD (breathable peel/reseal)structures described above, as such the breathable composite peel/resealstructure can be produced as a roll/lid-stock, film, and/or variousother materials and constructs as described herein. In an example, apackaging system enclosing food product can be a rigid tray connected toor integrated with a breathable composite RF structure forming acomposite RPD, thereby allowing for the sealing of the food productwithin the enclosure of the structure. In an alternative example, theRPD containing the food product can be a flexible bag or a standup pouchthat can be sealed by and with the composite RF structure.

It is contemplated that the component layers of the RF and/or RPD may beconstructed from materials designed to have varying properties, such ashigher/lower permeability characteristics, thereby, affecting thematerial's direct gas transmission properties. It is also contemplatedfor exemplary embodiments of the current invention that thebreathability is, at least in part, achieved through one or moreperforations (micro- and/or macro-perforation) of the film layer or morethan one film layers forming the RF. Alternatively, the breathabilitycan be achieved, at least in part, by creating and locating one or moremicropores, slots or slits in one or more than one of the RF componentlayers, thereby affecting the gas transmission rates achievable by thecurrent invention. Alternatively, breathability may be achieved, throughthe chemical composition of the co-extruded layers of the RF if the foodto be packaged in RPD has a breathability or O₂ transmission requirementof 180 cubic centimeters per 100 square inches RF per day or lower.

The RF can provide a total gas transmission rate comprising thetransmission rate through any one or combination of the base film,peelable film and the atmospheric control attributes. In exemplaryembodiments, the total gas transmission rate of oxygen for the RF itselfis, in units of cubic centimeters per 100 square inches per day, 50 orhigher; preferably 500 or higher, more preferably 1000 or higher. Therate of transmission of oxygen for the RF itself is, in units of cubiccentimeters per 100 square inches per day is 100,000 or lower;preferably 10,000 or lower, more preferably 5000 or lower.

The total gas transmission rate of carbon dioxide for the RF itself is,in units of cubic centimeters per 100 square inches per day is, 100 orhigher; preferably 500 or higher, more preferably 1000 or higher. Therate of transmission of oxygen for the RF itself is, in units of cubiccentimeters per 100 square inches per day is 200,000 or lower;preferably 100,000 or lower, more preferably 50,000 or lower.

The total transmission rate of water vapor for the RF itself is, inunits of grams per 100 square inches per day is, 0.001 or higher;preferably 0.005 or higher, more preferably 0.01 or higher. The rate oftransmission of water vapor for the RF itself is, in units of grams per100 square inches per day is 100 or lower; preferably 50 or lower, morepreferably 35 or lower.

The current invention promotes the maintenance of a moisture levelwithin the enclosure, such that condensate is continually maintained atminimal to low levels within the interior atmosphere of the packagingdevice. As such, exemplary embodiments of the current invention canprovide a transmission rate based on units of grams per 100 squareinches per day ranging from 0.001 to 0.1, more preferably 0.01 orhigher, for water vapor content present in an interior atmosphere of theenclosure. The presence of condensate at proper amounts promotes thequality and prolonged/extended shelf-lives. As described herein below,the current invention can promote the maintenance of a desired relativehumidity (i.e., 60-100% RH) within the internal atmosphere of anenclosure, thereby ensuring the proper moisture content within.

It is contemplated that the first layer, peelable layer or any otherlayers as indicated for these and other preferred embodiments, can beprinted on and include various designs, symbols, logos, labels, insigniaand other identifying marks. The printing techniques can include surfaceprinting, reverse printing and such other techniques as may becontemplated by those skilled in the art. The printing may take place oneither side of a layer, more preferably on the side of a layer thatfaces away from the enclosure or towards the environment outside theinternal environment provided by the RF and/or RPD of the currentinvention. The printing can cover an amount of the surface area of alayer, such amount can vary from all to a small percentage (>0.1%);preferably >10% but <90%; and more preferably >20% but <70% of the totalsurface area of the printed layer.

It is contemplated that during a method of manufacturing an RF and/orresealable packaging device various identifiers, such as a label, logo,symbol, sign, indicator, insignia and other identifying marks may beincluded. These various identifiers may be printed on the layers of thedevice, integrally formed upon or connected to the layer(s) of theresealable packaging device. Alternatively, connection of variousidentifiers may occur by adhesion through the use of various adhesives,sealants, and the like as contemplated by those of ordinary skill in theart.

In the preferred embodiments shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C, a resealablepackaging device (RPD) 100 having a resealable film (RF) 110 connectedto a storage container 120, thereby defining an enclosure 160, isprovided. The storage container 120 is defined by a sidewall 121 withopposing sections continuously extending from its connection along abottom edge 123 with a bottom wall 125. The sidewall 121 includes acontinuous top edge 122 which defines an open perimeter that exposes theinterior surfaces of the sidewall 121 and the bottom wall 125.

The RF 110 comprises three component layers, a first layer (“firstflexible film” or “heat sealable layer”) 130 that can be surface printedand designed to be heat sealable, an adhesive second layer 140 and apeelable third layer (peelable and/or second flexible film) 150. Thefirst layer 130 has a bottom surface 132 and top surface 134 and iscomprised of two connected sections, a sealing section or segment 136connected with a resealable, removable or re-closable section 138 (alsocollectively referred to herein as “removable section” or “removablesegment”). The first layer 130 is of a heat sealable design allowing atleast a portion of the bottom surface 132 of the sealing section 136 offirst layer 130 to be sealed and/or connected to the top edge 122 of thesidewall 121 of container 120. It is contemplated that the sealing ofthe first side 132 with edge 122 is accomplished using a tray sealingmachine to create weld seal. Other techniques and/or technologies forconnecting any layer of an RF with a storage container can be utilizedas described herein and as may be contemplated by those skilled in theart. The first layer 130 has and is constructed with a material heightor thickness of 1.2 mil. It is contemplated that the heat sealable layerof any exemplary RF and/or RPD embodiment can have and/or be formed witha material thickness ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 mil, more preferably from0.5 to 2.5 mil. It is contemplated that the RF 110 can connect withvarious packaging devices and/or technologies to provide an enclosurecapable of at least partially encompassing food product, 102 within.

With the first layer 130 sealed to the top edge 122 of container 120 theenclosure 160 is defined as the space that exists between opposingsidewall 121 sections and between the bottom surface 132 and the bottomwall 125. It is within enclosure 160 that various food products, asexemplified by food product 102 in the current embodiment, can be storedand located. The food products having various respirationcharacteristics, such as low, medium and/or high respiration rates.

When RF 110 is closed, as shown in the current embodiment, the enclosure160 is understood as having an interior space that defines an interioratmosphere or environment. This environment comprising variousenvironmental conditions as discussed previously herein. Moreparticularly, when food product 102 is located in enclosure 160, therespiration characteristics impact upon the interior atmosphere andconditions, such as the concentrations of various gases, water vaporand/or agents present.

RF 110 includes atmospheric control attributes 190. The atmosphericcontrol attributes being designed and included to provide a total openarea for the RF and RPD that promotes the optimization of the interioratmosphere of enclosure 160, particularly when food product isencompassed therein. As discussed previously, the configuration, number,size and density of the atmospheric control attributes can vary toprovide a desired per perforation open area and total open area. Theatmospheric control attributes 190 are configured as three (3)micro-perforations and are open through all layer connecting theenclosure 160 and thereby the food product 102 to the externalenvironment.

In the preferred embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1D, each of the atmosphericcontrol attributes 190 are positioned and configured to provide anopening that extends through RF 110 and the removable section 138 offirst layer 130. This provides a communication or synergisticinteraction between the enclosure 160 and an exterior atmosphere outsidethe RPD 100 allowing and, at least in part, controlling transmissioncharacteristics and properties. As described, the atmospheric controlattributes are micro-perforations. The micro-perforations establishedcan include one (1) to one hundred (100) micro-perforations, whereineach micro-perforation has a diameter of one hundred microns (100 μm)providing a per perforation open area of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m². The configurationof the atmospheric control attributes 190 for FIGS. 1A-1C provides atotal open area of 2×10⁻⁸ m². It is contemplated that a total open areaof 7.85×10⁻⁹ to 7.85×10⁻⁷ m² can be established for the preferredembodiment.

It is contemplated for the current preferred embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1Dthat it include micro-perforations with diameter sizes of: (i) 75microns (75 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 4.415625×10⁻⁹m²; (ii) 90 microns (90 μm) providing a per perforation open area of6.3585×10⁻⁹ m²; (iii) 100 microns (100 μm) providing a per perforationopen area of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m²; (iv) 120 microns (120 μm) providing a perperforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (v) 130 microns (130 μm) providing aper perforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (vi) 150 microns (150 μm)providing a per perforation open area of 2×10⁻⁸ m²; (vii) 240 microns(240 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 5×10⁻⁸ m²; or (viii)such other sizes and per perforation open area as may provide theatmospheric promotional advantages. It is contemplated for exemplaryembodiments, RF per unit package and/or RPD, of the current inventionthat the total open area provided by the atmospheric control attributesmay range generally from 1.5×10⁻¹¹ m² to 1.5×10⁻⁴ m².

In the preferred embodiments shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the 3 layers areshown connected and separated, as in the exploded view of FIG. 1C. Thefirst layer (first flexible film) 130 is die-cut to form a desired shapefor the removable section 138 and a desired shape of opening 139. Thecut (die-cut) may be made once the layers of the RF and/or RPD arecreated, forming a continuous opening 139. With this configuration, thepeelable layer 150, as connected to the removable section 138 viaadhesive layer 140 has an original position, that is substantiallyclosed or sealed over the opening 138 and enclosure 160. When peelingback the peelable layer 150, as connected to the removable section 138via adhesive layer 140, it peels away and separates from the sealingsection 136 and the top surface 134 of the first flexible film layer 130and exposes the opening 139 and, thereby, enclosure 160. Thisconfiguration is designed to peel back completely and separate theremovable section 138, the adhesive layer 140 and second flexible filmlayer 150 from the container 120. It is contemplated that for theadhesive layer 140 and second flexible film layer 150 that at least aportion to all of each or both of these layers can be peeled backcompletely and separated from container 120.

The peeled back and separated removable segment 138, adhesive layer 140and second flexible film layer 150 can also be re-positioned, re-sealedand/or re-closed back into its original “closed” position that it wasprior to being peeled away and separated from the first film layer 130and container 120. In this manner, the current invention promotes there-sealing and/or re-closing of the opening 138 and, thereby, enclosure160. This re-sealing and/or re-closing capability provided allows a foodproduct, stored in enclosure 160, to be re-closed within an interioratmosphere of the enclosure 160 after having been exposed to theexterior atmosphere outside the container 120. As such, the atmosphericcontrol attributes 190 can once again provide to the re-closed RPD 100the advantages of promoting an optimization of the interior atmospherefor the food product.

It shall be understood that the use of the terms “resealable”,“removable” and/or “re-closable” herein, including in the claims, arenon-limiting, non-restrictive and are intended to provide an indicationof a capability being provided by any of the exemplary embodimentsdescribed and claims for the current invention. In this context, it isunderstood that the peeling away of the removable segment of anyexemplary RF embodiment described herein results in at least a partialloss of connection between it and other segments to which it isconnected, such as the sealable segment of the first film layer 130described for this embodiment and contemplated such other non-adhesivelayer configurations as may be contemplated. Thus, when the removablesegment is re-closed into a closed position, it may or may not form thesame or a similar connection with the other segment (e.g., sealablesegment) as it originally had. For exemplary embodiments describedherein, an opening may be provided in a film layer and a second filmlayer may cover the opening when established in a closed position. Theclosed position of such an embodiment not necessarily requiring aremovable segment formed in a desired configuration. The second layerbeing able to peel away from the first layer to open or expose theopening and, thereby, an enclosure, is also enabled to be resealed to orre-closed with the first layer and, thereby, re-close the opening andenclosure. It being understood that such a second film layer maycomprise such other multiple additional non-adhesive and/or adhesivelayers as may be contemplated. However, it shall be understood that there-closing of either the removable segment as connected to variousadditional layers or the opening in a non-adhesive layer positions it ina manner whereby the atmospheric control attributes are once againenabled to provide to the RF and/or RPD the advantages of promoting anoptimization of the interior atmosphere for a food product in anenclosure.

In an alternative embodiment, a cut (die-cut) can be made on the firstlayer forming an opening prior to the adhesion of the first layer to apeelable layer. In this example, exposing the opening on the firstlayer, by peeling back the peelable layer, does not remove portions ofthe first layer with the peelable layer. In a further alternative, theopening 139 can be formed using a registered technique, wherein theconnection of the removable section 138 with the sealable section 136 isnot fully compromised. For example, a length of the removable section138 can be left fully connected and/or integrated with sealable section136. Thus, when the layers and removable section 138 are peeled back atleast a portion stays attached to the first flexible film 130 and cannotbe separated completely from container 120. It is further contemplatedthat the first layer may be cut using various technologies andtechniques, such as being laser drilled or scored with mechanical orlaser methods to any desired shape to allow forming of an opening 139.

The technique(s) used to establish the removable section 138, such asthe die-cut and registered die-cut disclosed, are designed to helppromote the optimization of various internal atmospheric conditions,including one or combination of O₂, CO₂, C₂H₄ and H₂O vaporconcentrations, in the enclosure 160 within which a food product, 102 islocated, even after the peelable second flexible film (third) layer 150of the RF 110 is peeled and resealed. When the layers and removablesection 138 are in in the position shown in FIG. 1B the opening isclosed and as such the enclosure 160 is closed. In this configurationthe atmospheric control attributes 190 promote the optimization of theinterior atmosphere and provide the interaction between the interioratmosphere of enclosure 160 and an exterior atmosphere outside theclosed resealable packaging device 100. When the layers and removablesection 138 are peeled back the opening 139 and enclosure 160 is exposedor open to the exterior atmosphere. It is understood that atmosphericcontrol attributes 190, when the removable section 138 and layers 140and 150 are re-positioned over enclosure 160 after exposure to theexterior atmosphere, will interact with the interior atmosphere of theenclosure 160 and promote its optimization. It is contemplated that theatmospheric control attributes provide their synergistic interactionwith any interior atmospheric conditions found, even after the exposureof an enclosure and any food product stored therein to an exterioratmosphere, and, thereby, promote the optimization of the interioratmosphere throughout the use of the RF and/or RPD.

The RPD 100, as shown in FIG. 1D, is similar to the RPD 100 of FIGS.1A-1C, except for the addition of atmospheric control attributes 191,192, 193 and 194 located in the RF 110. The plurality of atmosphericcontrol attributes 191 to 194 are configured as micro-perforations. Theatmospheric control attribute 191 provides an opening through all layersof RF 110, and more particularly through the sealable section 136 offirst layer 130. Atmospheric control attribute 192 provides an openingcompletely through the second flexible film 150 and adhesive layer 140.Atmosphere control attribute 193 provides an opening completely throughthe removable section 138 of first flexible film 130 and atmosphericcontrol attribute 194 provides an opening completely through the secondflexible film 150. In the current embodiment atmospheric controlattributes 190 and 191 can be similarly configured, including length asboth extend entirely through RF 110, but established through differentsections of the first layer 130. Atmospheric control attributes 192, 193and 194 may have similar or different diameters when compared againstone another and/or atmospheric control attributes 190 and 191. As shown,atmospheric control attribute 192 has a length dimension that extends itthrough layers 150 and 140, atmospheric control attribute 193 has alength dimension that extends it through the removable section 138 offirst layer 130 and atmospheric control attribute 194 has a lengthdimension that extends it through layer 150. Thus, the atmosphericcontrol attributes 192, 193 and 194 have distinct volumetricconfigurations based on the thickness of material(s) that each extendsthrough. In the alternative or addition to, the one or plurality ofatmospheric control attributes may be, at least partially, located inthe RPD 100. The configuration, location, number, size, density, openarea and the like of the atmospheric control attribute(s) located in anexemplary RPD and/or RF can vary to accommodate varying configurationsof the RF 110 and/or container 120 and/or the use of the RPD 100 withvarious food products without departing from the scope and spirit of thecurrent invention.

Various food products 102 can be located within the enclosure 160 of RPD100. As described herein, these food products can include variousperishable and/or non-perishable food products. The RF 110 connects withthe storage container 120 and covers the enclosure 160. The peelablethird layer 150 of the RF 110 can be peeled away from the first layer130 thereby exposing opening 138 within the first layer 130 and exposingthe enclosure 160. This allows access to the enclosure 160 and any itemstherein, such as food product 102.

In the preferred embodiments, the plurality of atmospheric controlattributes 190 to 194 located in the RF 110 provides the breathableutility of the RF 110 and breathability for the interior atmosphere ofenclosure 160 of RPD 100. As such, the atmospheric control attributes190 or 190 in conjunction with 191 through 194 promotes the optimizationof the interior atmosphere of the enclosure 160 and the qualityprotection of the food product 102 therein, by affecting the respiringand gas sensitive food product 102. The effects that may be provided bythe current invention can promote the optimization of various internalatmospheric conditions, including one or combination of O₂, CO₂, C₂H₄and H₂O vapor concentrations, in the enclosure 160 within which a foodproduct, 102 is located. As described herein, this optimization ofenclosure atmospheric conditions for food product located therein caninclude, without limitation, the establishment, modulation and/ormaintenance of various amounts, ranges of amounts, concentrations,ratios and the like, of the presence of various gases, moisture content,chemical and such other atmospheric factors as may be contemplated aspresent in the internal atmosphere of the enclosure.

It is contemplated that the first layer, peelable layer or any otherlayers as indicated for these and other embodiments, can be constructedof various materials and printed on and include various designs and/orinclude a label. In the preferred embodiment, the material used for theRF 110 and storage container 120 are polymeric that have at least onepolymer common in their composition to aid in creating a weld seal. Asdescribed herein, alternative materials, including composite materials,may be used for and in the construction of the RF 110 and/or storagecontainer 120 of the RPD 100.

It is also contemplated that the materials used for the RF 110 can bedifferent than that used for storage container 120. For instance, thestorage container 120 can be formed from materials that are more rigidand less breathable than the materials used for the RF 110 and/or viceversa. Various alternatives as may be contemplated by those skilled inthe art can be employed without departing from the scope and spirit ofthe current invention.

The printing techniques can include surface printing, reverse printingand such other techniques as may be contemplated by those skilled in theart. The printing may take place on either side of a layer, morepreferably on the side of a layer that faces away from the enclosure ortowards the environment outside the internal environment provided by theRF and/or RPD of the current invention. The printing can cover an amountof the surface area of a layer, such amount can vary from all to a smallpercentage (>0.1%) of the total surface area of the first layer. It iscontemplated that the current invention may not include any printing ormay include any amount of printing. The printing does or does not, mayor may not impact upon any of the capabilities provided by the currentinvention.

The adhesive layer 140 comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive andprovides a material thickness of 0.51 mil. Alternative adhesives andthicknesses are contemplated for use by the current invention. It iscontemplated that the adhesive layer(s) of any exemplary RF and/or RPDembodiments can be constructed having a material thickness ranging from0.01 to 3 mil, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 mil. The adhesive layercontemplated for use by embodiments of the current invention can beformed utilizing various adhesives and/or compounds including, withoutlimitation, heat sensitive adhesive(s), pressure sensitive adhesive(s)and the like, as may be contemplated. Still further, the adhesive layercan be formed using adhesives with various properties and/orcharacteristics, such as strong and/or weak adhesive characteristics andthe like. The structure of any of the exemplary embodiments may includeone or more adhesive layers having various physical characteristicsincluding, without limitation, the thickness of the adhesive materialsused in constructing the layer(s).

The adhesive second layer 140 of the current embodiment has a totaladhesive (TA), as measured in weight/unit area (g/m²), of 34.42 g/m².Given the identified specifications above for the adhesive layers thatmay comprise various exemplary embodiments of the current invention, itis contemplated that the adhesive layers may have a total adhesive (TA),as measured in weight/unit (g/m²), ranging from 1 to 100 g/m² and morepreferably from 5 to 70 g/m². It is further contemplated that theadhesive layer can provide a moisture control feature and/or factor thatimpacts upon the water vapor content within the resealable packagingdevice. In the current embodiment, this comprises the use of waterimpermeable or partially water permeable PSAs in the adhesive layer 140to provide a moisture control feature that promotes a decrease in thewater vapor content present within the interior atmosphere provided forfood product stored within the enclosure 160 of the resealable packagingdevice 100. The moisture control feature and/or factor can beestablished within the chemical composition of the adhesive for use inembodiments of the current invention. It is contemplated that thecurrent invention can employ the use of one or more desiccants or othermoisture adsorption technologies.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.1 to 165g/100 sq. in/day. This total MVTR control provided by the currentinvention promotes desirable atmospheric conditions within theresealable packaging device and thereby provides all the advantages ofthe current invention. These advantages include the promotion ofdesirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. Packaging devices that lack the MTVR controls of thecurrent invention can fail to provide any of the advantages of thecurrent invention and thereby the food product quality can besignificantly deteriorated, the observation and/or presence ofundesirable marketable characteristics can be seen earlier and may bemore pronounced and shelf-life can be significantly reduced. All thesefailures can have a significantly negative impact upon the marketablecharacteristics and, therefore, potential commercial success for anypackaged food product and, as such, may have a significant negativeimpact upon the choices and quality provided to consumers of foodproducts.

The peelable third layer 150 is constructed having a material height orthickness of 1.02 mil. Various layers utilized in forming exemplary RFand/or RPD embodiments can be constructed having a material thicknessranging from 0.5 to 5.0 mil, more preferably between 0.5 and 2.5 mil.Alternative thicknesses for non-adhesive and/or peelable layers arecontemplated for use by the current invention.

Given the identified specifications for RPD 100, the total thickness forthe RF 110 is 2.65-2.75 mil. It is contemplated that the RF may have atotal height or thickness ranging from 1 to 8 mil or other alternativeranges of height or thickness as contemplated by those skilled in theart. In other preferred embodiments, the RF total thickness ranges from2.25 to 2.35 mil. In additional preferred embodiments, the RF totalthickness ranges from 4.00 to 4.25 mil.

In the preferred embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C, a resealablepackaging device (RPD) 200 having a resealable film (RF) 210 connectedto a storage container 220, thereby defining an enclosure 280, isprovided. The storage container 220 is defined by a sidewall 221 withopposing sections continuously extending from its connection along abottom edge 223 with a bottom wall 225. The sidewall 221 includes acontinuous top edge 222 which defines an open perimeter that exposes theinterior surfaces of the sidewall 221 and the bottom wall 225.

The resealable film 210 comprises five component layers, a first layer(“first flexible film” or “heat sealable layer”) 230 that is designed tobe heat sealable and may be surface printed, an adhesive second layer240, a peelable third layer 250, which is bonded or laminated withlamination layer 260 to fifth layer 270. The first layer 230 has abottom surface 232 and top surface 234 and is comprised of two connectedsections, a sealing section 236 connected with a resealable or removablesection 238. The first layer 230 is of a heat sealable design allowingat least a portion of the bottom surface 232 of the sealing section 236of first layer 230 to be sealed and/or connected to the top edge 222 ofthe sidewall 221 of container 220. It is contemplated that the sealingof the first side 232 with edge 222 is accomplished using a tray sealingmachine to create weld seal. Other techniques and/or technologies forconnecting any layer of an RF with a storage container can be utilizedas described herein and as may be contemplated by those skilled in theart. The first layer 230 has and is constructed with a material heightor thickness of 1.2 mil. It is contemplated that the heat sealable layerof any exemplary RF and/or RPD embodiment can have and/or be formed witha material thickness ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 mil, more preferably from0.5 to 2.5 mil. It is contemplated that the RF 210 can connect withvarious packaging devices and/or technologies to provide an enclosurecapable of at least partially encompassing food product, 202 within.

With the first layer 230 sealed to the top edge 222 of container 220 theenclosure 280 is defined as the space that exists between opposingsidewall 221 sections and between the bottom surface 232 and the bottomwall 225. It is within enclosure 280 that various food products, asexemplified by food product 202 in the current embodiment, can be storedand located. The food products having various respirationcharacteristics, such as low, medium and/or high respiration rates.

When RF 210 is closed or sealed, as shown in the current embodiment, theenclosure 280 is understood as having an interior space that defines aninterior atmosphere or environment. This environment comprising variousenvironmental conditions as discussed previously herein. Moreparticularly, when food product 202 is located in enclosure 280, therespiration characteristics impact upon the interior atmosphere andconditions, such as the concentrations of various gases, water vaporand/or agents present.

RF 210 includes atmospheric control attributes 290. The atmosphericcontrol attributes being designed and included to provide a total openarea for the RF and RPD that promotes the optimization of the interioratmosphere of enclosure 280, particularly when food product isencompassed therein. As discussed previously, the configuration, number,size and density of the atmospheric control attributes can vary toprovide a desired per perforation open area and total open area. Theatmospheric control attributes 290 are configured as three (3)micro-perforations and are open through all layers connecting theenclosure 280 and thereby the food product 202 to the externalenvironment.

In the preferred embodiments of FIGS. 2A-2D, each of the atmosphericcontrol attributes 290 are positioned and configured to provide anopening that extends through RF 210 and the removable section 238 offirst layer 230. This provides a communication or synergisticinteraction between the enclosure 260 and an exterior atmosphere outsidethe RPD 200 allowing and, at least in part, controlling transmissioncharacteristics and properties. As described, the atmospheric controlattributes are micro-perforations. The micro-perforations establishedcan include one (1) to one hundred (100) micro-perforations, whereineach micro-perforation has a diameter of one hundred thirty microns (130μm) providing a per perforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m². Theconfiguration of the atmospheric control attributes 290 for FIGS. 2A-2Cprovides a total open area of 4×10⁻⁸ m². It is contemplated that a totalopen area of 1.33×10⁻⁸ m² to 1.33×10⁻⁶ m² or 7.85×10⁻⁹ to 7.85×10⁻⁷ m²can be established for the preferred embodiments of FIGS. 2A-2D.

It is contemplated for the current preferred embodiments of FIGS. 2A-2Dthat it include micro-perforations with diameter sizes of: (i) 75microns (75 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 4.415625×10⁻⁹m²; (ii) 90 microns (90 μm) providing a per perforation open area of6.3585×10⁻⁹ m²; (iii) 100 microns (100 μm) providing a per perforationopen area of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m²; (iv) 120 microns (120 μm) providing a perperforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (v) 130 microns (130 μm) providing aper perforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (vi) 150 microns (150 μm)providing a per perforation open area of 2×10⁻⁸ m²; (vii) 240 microns(240 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 5×10⁻⁸ m²; or (viii)such other sizes and per perforation open area as may provide theatmospheric promotional advantages. It is contemplated for exemplaryembodiments, RF per unit package and/or RPD, of the current inventionthat the total open area provided by the atmospheric control attributesmay range generally from 1.5×10⁻¹¹ m² to 1.5×10⁻⁴ m².

In the preferred embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, wherein 2C shows the5 layers are separated and shown as exploded view of FIG. 2A. The firstlayer (first flexible film) 230 is die-cut to form a desired shape forthe removable section 238 and a desired shape of opening 239. It isfurther contemplated that the first layer may be cut using varioustechnologies and techniques, such as being laser drilled or scored withmechanical or laser methods to any desired shape to allow forming of anopening 238 during peeling. The cut (die-cut) may be made once thelayers of the RF and/or RPD are created, forming a continuous opening239. With this configuration, when peeling back the peelable layer 250connected to the removable section 238 via adhesive layer 240 it exposesthe opening 239. This configuration is further designed to peel backcompletely and separate the removable section 238 and all other layersof RF 210 from the container 220. In an alternative embodiment, a cut(die-cut) can be made on the first layer forming an opening prior to theadhesion of the first layer to a peelable layer. In this example,exposing the opening on the first layer, by peeling back the peelablelayer, does not remove portions of the first layer with the peelablelayer. In a further alternative, the opening 239 can be formed using aregistered technique, wherein the connection of the removable section238 with the sealable section 236 is not fully compromised. For example,a length of the removable section 238 can be left fully connected and/orintegrated with sealable section 236. Thus, when the layers andremovable section 238 are peeled back at least a portion stays attachedto the first flexible film 230 and cannot be separated completely fromcontainer 220. It is further contemplated that the first layer may becut using various technologies and techniques, such as being laserdrilled or scored with mechanical or laser methods to any desired shapeto allow forming of an opening 239.

The technique(s) used to establish the resealable section 238, such asthe die-cut and registered die-cut disclosed, are designed to helppromote the optimization of various internal atmospheric conditions,including one or combination of O₂, CO₂, C₂H₄ and H₂O vaporconcentrations, in the enclosure 280 within which a food product, 202 islocated, even after the peelable second flexible film (third) layer 250of the RF 210 is peeled and resealed. When the layers and removablesection 238 are in in the position shown in FIG. 1B the opening isclosed and as such the enclosure 280 is closed. In this configurationthe atmospheric control attributes 290 promote the optimization of theinterior atmosphere and provide the interaction between the interioratmosphere of enclosure 280 and an exterior atmosphere outside theclosed resealable packaging device 200. When the layers and removablesection 238 are peeled back the opening 239 and enclosure 280 is exposedor open to the exterior atmosphere. It is understood that atmosphericcontrol attributes 290, when the removable section 238 and the otherlayers of RF 210 are resealed over enclosure 280 after exposure to theexterior atmosphere, will interact with the interior atmosphere of theenclosure 280 and promote its optimization. It is contemplated that theatmospheric control attributes provide their synergistic interactionwith any interior atmospheric conditions found, even after the exposureof an enclosure and any food product stored therein to an exterioratmosphere, and, thereby, promote the optimization of the interioratmosphere throughout the use of the RF and/or RPD.

The RPD 200, as shown in FIG. 2D, is similar to the RPD 100 of FIGS.2A-2C, except for the addition of atmospheric control attributes 291,292, 293, 294, 295, 296 and 297 located in the RF 210. The plurality ofatmospheric control attributes 291 to 297 are configured asmicro-perforations. The atmospheric control attribute 291 provides anopening through all layers of RF 110, and more particularly through thesealable section 136 of first layer 130. Atmospheric control attribute291 provides an opening completely through layers 270, 260, 250 and 240of the RF 210. Atmospheric control attribute 297 provides an openingcompletely through layers 250, 240 and 230 of the RF 210. Atmospherecontrol attribute 292 provides an opening completely through layers 270and 260 and atmospheric control attribute 297 provides an openingcompletely through layers 240 and 230. Atmosphere control attribute 293provides an opening completely through layer 270 and atmospheric controlattribute 294 provides an opening completely through layers 230. In thecurrent embodiment atmospheric control attributes 291 and 297 can be atleast significantly, similarly configured, as both extend through threelayers of RF 210, but establish different direct communication of thelayers. Atmospheric control attributes 294, 295 and 297 may have similaror different configurations but each establishes a direct communicationbetween the enclosure 280 and the different layers to which eachextends. Atmospheric control attributes 291, 292 and 293 may havesimilar or different configurations but each establishes a directcommunication between the exterior environment of the RF 201 and/or RPD200 and the different layers to which each extends. The atmosphericcontrol attributes 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296 and 297 have distinctvolumetric configurations based on the thickness of material(s) thateach extends through. In the alternative or addition to, the one orplurality of atmospheric control attributes may be, at least partially,located in the RPD 200. The configuration, location, number, size,density, open area and the like of the atmospheric control attribute(s)located in an exemplary RPD and/or RF can vary to accommodate varyingconfigurations of the RF 210 and/or container 220 and/or the use of theRPD 200 with various food products without departing from the scope andspirit of the current invention.

Various food products 202 can be located within the enclosure 280 of RPD200. As described herein, these food products can include variousperishable and/or non-perishable food products. In the preferredembodiment, RPD 200 includes a respiring fresh produce located withinthe enclosure 280. The RF 210 connects with the storage container 220and covers the enclosure 280. The peelable third layer 250 of the RF 210can be peeled away from the first layer 230 thereby exposing opening 238within the first layer 230 and exposing the enclosure 280. This allowsaccess to the enclosure 280 and any items therein, such as food product202.

In the preferred embodiments, the plurality of atmospheric controlattributes 290 to 297 located in the RF 210 provides the breathableutility of the RF 210 and breathability for the interior atmosphere ofenclosure 280 of RPD 200. As such, the atmospheric control attributes290 or 290 in conjunction with 291 through 297 promotes the optimizationof the interior atmosphere of the enclosure 280 and the qualityprotection of the food product 202 therein, by affecting the respiringand gas sensitive food product 202. The effects that may be provided bythe current invention can promote the optimization of various internalatmospheric conditions, including one or combination of O₂, CO₂, C₂H₄and H₂O vapor concentrations, in the enclosure 280 within which a foodproduct, 202 is located. As described herein, this optimization ofenclosure atmospheric conditions for food product located therein caninclude, without limitation, the establishment, modulation and/ormaintenance of various amounts, ranges of amounts, concentrations,ratios and the like, of the presence of various gases, moisture content,chemical and such other atmospheric factors as may be contemplated aspresent in the internal atmosphere of the enclosure.

It is contemplated that the first layer, peelable layer or any otherlayers as indicated for these and other embodiments, can be constructedof various materials and printed on and include various designs and/orinclude a label. In the preferred embodiment, the material used for theRF 210 and storage container 220 are polymeric that have at least onepolymer common in their composition to aid in creating a weld seal. Asdescribed herein, alternative materials, including composite materials,may be used for and in the construction of the RF 210 and/or storagecontainer 220 of the RPD 200. It is also contemplated that the materialsused for the RF 210 can be different than that used for storagecontainer 220. For instance, the storage container 220 can be formedfrom materials that are more rigid and less breathable than thematerials used for the RF 210 and/or vice versa. Various alternatives asmay be contemplated by those skilled in the art can be employed withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the current invention.

It is contemplated that the first layer 230, peelable layer 250 or anyother layers 240 or 260 or 270 as indicated for these and otherembodiments, can include/have, be formed with and/or be constructed ofvarious materials and printed on and include various designs and/orinclude a label. In the preferred embodiment, the material used for theRF 210 and storage container 220 are polymeric materials that have atleast one polymer common in their composition to aid in creating a weldseal. As described herein, alternative materials, including compositematerials, may be used for and in the construction of the RF 210 and/orstorage container 220 of the RPD 200. It is also contemplated that thematerials used for the RF 210 can be different than that used forstorage container 220. For instance, the storage container 220 can beformed from materials that are more rigid and less breathable than thematerials used for the RF 210 and/or vice versa. Various alternatives asmay be contemplated by those skilled in the art can be employed withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the current invention.

The printing techniques can include surface printing, reverse printingand such other techniques as may be contemplated by those skilled in theart. The printing may take place on either side of a layer, morepreferably on the side of a layer that faces away from the enclosure ortowards the environment outside the internal environment provided by theRF and/or RPD of the current invention. The printing can cover an amountof the surface area of a layer, such amount can vary from all to a smallpercentage (>0.1%) of the total surface area of the first layer. It iscontemplated that the current invention may not include any printing ormay include any amount of printing. The printing does or does not, mayor may not impact upon any of the capabilities provided by the currentinvention.

The adhesive second layer 240 comprises a pressure sensitive adhesiveand provides a material thickness of 0.11 mil. Alternative adhesives andthicknesses are contemplated for use by the current invention. It iscontemplated that the adhesive layer(s) of any exemplary RF and/or RPDembodiments can be constructed having a material thickness ranging from0.01 to 3 mil, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 mil. The adhesive layercontemplated for use by embodiments of the current invention can beformed utilizing various adhesives and/or compounds including, withoutlimitation, heat sensitive adhesive(s), pressure sensitive adhesive(s)and the like, as may be contemplated. Still further, the adhesive layercan be formed using adhesives with various properties and/orcharacteristics, such as strong and/or weak adhesive characteristics andthe like. The structure of any of the exemplary embodiments may includeone or more adhesive layers having various physical characteristicsincluding, without limitation, the thickness of the adhesive materialsused in constructing the layer(s).

The adhesive second layer 240 of the current embodiment has a totaladhesive (TA), as measured in weight/unit area (g/m²), of 10.17 g/m².Given the identified specifications above for the adhesive layers thatmay comprise various exemplary embodiments of the current invention, itis contemplated that the adhesive layers may have a total adhesivecontent (TA), as measured in weight/unit (g/m²), ranging from 1 to 100g/m² and more preferably from 5 to 70 g/m². It is further contemplatedthat the adhesive layer can provide a moisture control feature and/orfactor that impacts upon the water vapor content within the resealablepackaging device. In the current embodiment, this comprises the use ofwater impermeable or partially water permeable PSAs to provide amoisture control feature that promotes a decrease in the water vaporcontent present within the interior atmosphere provided for food productstored within the enclosure of the resealable packaging devices of thecurrent invention. The moisture control feature and/or factor can beestablished within the chemical composition of the adhesive e for use inembodiments of the current invention. It is contemplated that thecurrent invention can employ the use of one or more desiccants or othermoisture adsorption technologies.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.1 to 165g/100 sq. in/day. This total MVTR control provided by the currentinvention promotes desirable atmospheric conditions within theresealable packaging device and thereby provides all the advantages ofthe current invention. These advantages include the promotion ofdesirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. Packaging devices that lack the MTVR controls of thecurrent invention can fail to provide any of the advantages of thecurrent invention and thereby the food product quality can besignificantly deteriorated, the observation and/or presence ofundesirable marketable characteristics can be seen earlier and may bemore pronounced and shelf-life can be significantly reduced. All thesefailures can have a significantly negative impact upon the marketablecharacteristics and, therefore, potential commercial success for anypackaged food product and, as such, may have a significant negativeimpact upon the choices and quality provided to consumers of foodproducts.

The peelable third layer 250 can include/have, be formed with and/or beconstructed having a material height or thickness of 1.04 mil. Variouslayers utilized in forming exemplary RF and/or RPD embodiments can beconstructed having a material thickness ranging from 0.5 to 5 mil, morepreferably between 0.5 and 2.5 mil. Alternative thicknesses fornon-adhesive and/or peelable layers are contemplated for use by thecurrent invention.

Given the identified specifications for RPD 200, the total thickness forthe RF 210 is 2.25-2.35 mil. It is contemplated that the RF may have atotal height or thickness ranging from 1 to 8 mil or other alternativeranges of height or thickness as contemplated by those skilled in theart.

In the preferred embodiments shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a resealablepackaging device (RPD) 300 having a resealable film (RF) 310 connectedto a storage container 320, thereby defining an enclosure 380, isprovided. The RF 310 comprises five component layers, a first layer 330designed to heat seal to the tray 320. The other layers are constructedas one construct 331 with an adhesive second layer 340, a peelable thirdlayer 350, a lamination fourth layer 360 bonded strongly to fifth layer370. The construct 331 may be formed in various shapes such as square,rectangle and alike but the surface size is always smaller than thesurface layer of first layer 330. The construct 331 is then adhered viaadhesive layer 340 to first layer 330. The tray 320 is defined by asidewall 321 with opposing sections continuously extending from itsconnection along a bottom edge 323 with a bottom wall 325. The sidewall321 includes a continuous top edge 322 which defines an open perimeterthat exposes the interior surfaces of the sidewall 321 and the bottomwall 325.

The first layer 330 has a bottom surface 332 and top surface 334 and iscomprised of two connected sections, a sealing section 336 connectedwith a resealable or removable section 338. The first layer 330 is of aheat sealable design allowing at least a portion of the bottom surface332 of the sealing section 336 of first layer 330 to be sealed and/orconnected to the top edge 322 of the sidewall 321 of container 320. Itis contemplated that the sealing of the first side 332 with edge 322 isaccomplished using a tray sealing machine to create weld seal. Othertechniques and/or technologies for connecting any layer of an RF with astorage container can be utilized as described herein and as may becontemplated by those skilled in the art. The first layer 330 has and isconstructed with a material height or thickness of 1.2 mil. It iscontemplated that the heat sealable layer of any exemplary RF and/or RPDembodiment can have and/or be formed with a material thickness rangingfrom 0.5 to 5.0 mil, more preferably from 0.5 to 2.5 mil. It iscontemplated that the RF 310 can connect with various packaging devicesand/or technologies to provide an enclosure capable of at leastpartially encompassing food product, 302 within.

With the first layer 330 sealed to the top edge 322 of container 320 theenclosure 380 is defined as the space that exists between opposingsidewall 321 sections and between the bottom surface 332 and the bottomwall 325. It is within enclosure 380 that various food products, asexemplified by food product 302 in the current embodiment, can be storedand located. The food products having various respirationcharacteristics, such as low, medium and/or high respiration rates.

When RF 310 is closed or sealed, as shown in the current embodiment, theenclosure 380 is understood as having an interior space that defines aninterior atmosphere or environment. This environment comprising variousenvironmental conditions as discussed previously herein. Moreparticularly, when food product 302 is located in enclosure 380, therespiration characteristics impact upon the interior atmosphere andconditions, such as the concentrations of various gases, water vaporand/or agents present.

RF 310 includes atmospheric control attributes 390. The atmosphericcontrol attributes being designed and included to provide a total openarea for the RF and RPD that promotes the optimization of the interioratmosphere of enclosure 380, particularly when food product isencompassed therein. As discussed previously, the configuration, number,size and density of the atmospheric control attributes can vary toprovide a desired per perforation open area and total open area. Theatmospheric control attributes 390 are configured as three (3)micro-perforations and are open through all layers connecting theenclosure 380 and thereby the food product 302 to the externalenvironment.

In the preferred embodiments of FIGS. 3A-3D, each of the atmosphericcontrol attributes 390 are positioned and configured to provide anopening that extends through RF 310 and the removable section 338 offirst layer 330. This provides a communication or synergisticinteraction between the enclosure 380 and an exterior atmosphere outsidethe RPD 300 allowing and, at least in part, controlling transmissioncharacteristics and properties. As described, the atmospheric controlattributes are micro-perforations. The micro-perforations establishedcan include one (1) to one hundred fifty (150) micro-perforations,wherein each micro-perforation has a diameter of seventy-five microns(75 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 4.415625×10⁻⁹ m². Theconfiguration of the three (3) atmospheric control attributes 290 forFIGS. 2A-2C provides a total open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m². It is contemplatedthat a total open area of 4.42×10⁻⁹ m² to 6.62×10⁻⁷ m²; 1.33×10⁻⁸ m² to1.33×10⁻⁶ m² or 7.85×10⁻⁹ to 7.85×10⁻⁷ m² can be established for thepreferred embodiments of FIGS. 3A-3D.

It is contemplated for the current preferred embodiments of FIGS. 3A-3Dthat it include micro-perforations with diameter sizes of: (i) 75microns (75 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 4.415625×10⁻⁹m²; (ii) 90 microns (90 μm) providing a per perforation open area of6.3585×10⁻⁹ m²; (iii) 100 microns (100 μm) providing a per perforationopen area of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m²; (iv) 120 microns (120 μm) providing a perperforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (v) 130 microns (130 μm) providing aper perforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (vi) 150 microns (150 μm)providing a per perforation open area of 2×10⁻⁸ m²; (vii) 240 microns(240 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 5×10⁻⁸ m²; or (viii)such other sizes and per perforation open area as may provide theatmospheric promotional advantages. It is contemplated for exemplaryembodiments, RF per unit package and/or RPD, of the current inventionthat the total open area provided by the atmospheric control attributesmay range generally from 1.5×10⁻¹¹ m² to 1.5×10⁻⁴ m².

In the preferred embodiments shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, wherein 3C shows the5 layers are separated and shown as exploded view of FIG. 3A. The firstlayer (first flexible film) 330 is die-cut to form a desired shape forthe removable section 338 and a desired shape of opening 339. It isfurther contemplated that the first layer may be cut using varioustechnologies and techniques, such as being laser drilled or scored withmechanical or laser methods to any desired shape to allow forming of anopening 338 during peeling. The cut (die-cut) may be made once thelayers of the RF and/or RPD are created, forming a continuous opening339. With this configuration, when peeling back the peelable layer 350connected to the removable section 338 via adhesive layer 340 it exposesthe opening 339. This configuration is further designed to peel backcompletely and separate the removable section 338 and all other layersof construct 331 from the container 320. In an alternative embodiment, acut (die-cut) can be made on the first layer forming an opening prior tothe adhesion of the first layer to a peelable layer. In this example,exposing the opening on the first layer, by peeling back the peelablelayer, does not remove portions of the first layer with the peelablelayer. In a further alternative, the opening 339 can be formed using aregistered technique, wherein the connection of the removable section338 with the sealable section 336 is not fully compromised. For example,a length of the removable section 338 can be left fully connected and/orintegrated with sealable section 336. Thus, when the layers andremovable section 338 are peeled back at least a portion stays attachedto the first flexible film 330 and cannot be separated completely fromcontainer 320. It is further contemplated that the first layer may becut using various technologies and techniques, such as being laserdrilled or scored with mechanical or laser methods to any desired shapeto allow forming of an opening 339.

The technique(s) used to establish the resealable section 338, such asthe die-cut and registered die-cut disclosed, are designed to helppromote the optimization of various internal atmospheric conditions,including one or combination of O₂, CO₂, C₂H₄ and H₂O vaporconcentrations, in the enclosure 380 within which a food product, 302 islocated, even after the peelable second flexible film (third) layer 350of the RF 310 is peeled and resealed. When the layers and removablesection 338 are in in the position shown in FIG. 3B the opening isclosed and as such the enclosure 380 is closed. In this configurationthe atmospheric control attributes 390 promote the optimization of theinterior atmosphere and provide the interaction between the interioratmosphere of enclosure 380 and an exterior atmosphere outside theclosed resealable packaging device 300. When the layers and removablesection 338 are peeled back the opening 339 and enclosure 380 is exposedor open to the exterior atmosphere. It is understood that atmosphericcontrol attributes 390, when the removable section 338 and the otherlayers of RF 310 are resealed over enclosure 380 after exposure to theexterior atmosphere, will interact with the interior atmosphere of theenclosure 380 and promote its optimization. It is contemplated that theatmospheric control attributes provide their synergistic interactionwith any interior atmospheric conditions found, even after the exposureof an enclosure and any food product stored therein to an exterioratmosphere, and, thereby, promote the optimization of the interioratmosphere throughout the use of the RF and/or RPD.

The RPD 300, as shown in FIG. 3D, is similar to the RPD 300 of FIGS.3A-3C, except for the addition of atmospheric control attributes 391,392, 393, 394, 395 and 396 located in the RF 310. The plurality ofatmospheric control attributes 391 to 396 are configured asmicro-perforations. Atmospheric control attribute 391 provides anopening completely through layers 350 and 340 of the RF 310. Atmospherecontrol attribute 392 provides an opening completely through layers 370,360, 350 and 340 and atmospheric control attribute 395 provides anopening completely through layers 350, 340 and 330. Atmosphere controlattribute 393 provides an opening completely through layers 370 and 360,atmospheric control attribute 394 provides an opening completely throughlayer 370 and atmospheric control attribute 396 provides an openingcompletely through layer 350. Atmospheric control attributes may havesimilar or different configurations, but each establishes a directcommunication. Atmospheric control attributes 390, 392, 393 and 394 mayhave similar or different configurations but each establishes a directcommunication between the exterior environment of the RF 310 and/or RPD300 and the different layers to which each extends. The atmosphericcontrol attributes can have distinct volumetric configurations based onthe thickness of material(s) that each extends through. In thealternative or addition to, the one or plurality of atmospheric controlattributes may be, at least partially, located in the RPD 300. Theconfiguration, location, number, size, density, open area and the likeof the atmospheric control attribute(s) located in an exemplary RPDand/or RF can vary to accommodate varying configurations of the RF 310and/or tray 320 and/or the use of the RPD 300 with various food productswithout departing from the scope and spirit of the current invention.

Various food products 302 can be located within the enclosure 380 of RPD300. As described herein, these food products can include variousperishable and/or non-perishable food products. In the preferredembodiment, RPD 300 includes a respiring food located within theenclosure 380. The RF 310 connects with the storage container 320 andcovers the enclosure 380. The peelable third layer 350 of the RF 310 canbe peeled away from the first layer 330 thereby exposing opening 338within the first layer 330 and exposing the enclosure 380. This allowsaccess to the enclosure 380 and any items therein, such as food product302.

In the preferred embodiments, the plurality of atmospheric controlattributes 390 to 396 located in the RF 310 provides the breathableutility of the RF 310 and breathability for the interior atmosphere ofenclosure 380 of RPD 300. As such, the atmospheric control attributes390 or 390 in conjunction with 391 through 396 promotes the optimizationof the interior atmosphere of the enclosure 380 and the qualityprotection of the food product 302 therein, by affecting the respiringand gas sensitive food product 302. The effects that may be provided bythe current invention can promote the optimization of various internalatmospheric conditions, including one or combination of O₂, CO₂, C₂H₄and H₂O vapor concentrations, in the enclosure 380 within which a foodproduct, 302 is located. As described herein, this optimization ofenclosure atmospheric conditions for food product located therein caninclude, without limitation, the establishment, modulation and/ormaintenance of various amounts, ranges of amounts, concentrations,ratios and the like, of the presence of various gases, moisture content,chemical and such other atmospheric factors as may be contemplated aspresent in the internal atmosphere of the enclosure.

It is contemplated that the first layer, peelable layer or any otherlayers as indicated for these and other embodiments, can be constructedof various materials and printed on and include various designs and/orinclude a label. In the preferred embodiment, the material used for theRF 310 and storage container 320 are polymeric that have at least onepolymer common in their composition to aid in creating a weld seal. Asdescribed herein, alternative materials, including composite materials,may be used for and in the construction of the RF 310 and/or storagecontainer 320 of the RPD 300. It is also contemplated that the materialsused for the RF 310 can be different than that used for storagecontainer 320. For instance, the storage container 320 can be formedfrom materials that are more rigid and less breathable than thematerials used for the RF 310 and/or vice versa. Various alternatives asmay be contemplated by those skilled in the art can be employed withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the current invention.

It is contemplated that the first layer 330, peelable layer 350 or anyother layers 340 or 360 or 370 as indicated for these and otherembodiments, can include/have, be formed with and/or be constructed ofvarious materials and printed on and include various designs and/orinclude a label. In the preferred embodiment, the material used for theRF 310 and storage container 320 are polymeric materials that have atleast one polymer common in their composition to aid in creating a weldseal. As described herein, alternative materials, including compositematerials, may be used for and in the construction of the RF 310 and/orstorage container 320 of the RPD 300. It is also contemplated that thematerials used for the RF 310 can be different than that used forstorage container 320. For instance, the storage container 320 can beformed from materials that are more rigid and less breathable than thematerials used for the RF 310 and/or vice versa. Various alternatives asmay be contemplated by those skilled in the art can be employed withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the current invention.

The printing techniques can include surface printing, reverse printingand such other techniques as may be contemplated by those skilled in theart. The printing may take place on either side of a layer, morepreferably on the side of a layer that faces away from the enclosure ortowards the environment outside the internal environment provided by theRF and/or RPD of the current invention. The printing can cover an amountof the surface area of a layer, such amount can vary from all to a smallpercentage (>0.1%) of the total surface area of the first layer. It iscontemplated that the current invention may not include any printing ormay include any amount of printing. The printing does or does not, mayor may not impact upon any of the capabilities provided by the currentinvention.

The adhesive second layer 340 comprises a pressure sensitive adhesiveand provides a material thickness of 0.57 mil. Alternative adhesives andthicknesses are contemplated for use by the current invention. It iscontemplated that the adhesive layer(s) of any exemplary RF and/or RPDembodiments can be constructed having a material thickness ranging from0.01 to 3 mil, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 mil. The adhesive layercontemplated for use by embodiments of the current invention can beformed utilizing various adhesives and/or compounds including, withoutlimitation, heat sensitive adhesive(s), pressure sensitive adhesive(s)and the like, as may be contemplated. Still further, the adhesive layercan be formed using adhesives with various properties and/orcharacteristics, such as strong and/or weak adhesive characteristics andthe like. The structure of any of the exemplary embodiments may includeone or more adhesive layers having various physical characteristicsincluding, without limitation, the thickness of the adhesive materialsused in constructing the layer(s).

The adhesive second layer 340 of the current embodiment has a totaladhesive content (TA), as measured in weight/unit area (g/m²) of 65.5g/m². Given the identified specifications above for the adhesive layersthat may comprise various exemplary embodiments of the currentinvention, it is contemplated that the adhesive layers may have a totalarea (TA), as measured in weight/unit (g/m²), ranging from 1 to 100 g/m²and more preferably from 5 to 70 g/m². It is further contemplated thatthe adhesive layer can provide a moisture control feature and/or factorthat impacts upon the water vapor content within the resealablepackaging device. In the current embodiment, this comprises the use ofwater impermeable or partially water permeable PSAs to provide amoisture control feature that promotes a decrease in the water vaporcontent present within the interior atmosphere provided for food productstored within the enclosure of the resealable packaging devices of thecurrent invention. The moisture control feature and/or factor can beestablished within the chemical composition of the adhesive for use inembodiments of the current invention. It is contemplated that thecurrent invention can employ the use of one or more desiccants or othermoisture adsorption technologies.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.1 to 165g/100 sq. in/day. This total MVTR control provided by the currentinvention promotes desirable atmospheric conditions within theresealable packaging device and thereby provides all the advantages ofthe current invention. These advantages include the promotion ofdesirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. Packaging devices that lack the MTVR controls of thecurrent invention can fail to provide any of the advantages of thecurrent invention and thereby the food product quality can besignificantly deteriorated, the observation and/or presence ofundesirable marketable characteristics can be seen earlier and may bemore pronounced and shelf-life can be significantly reduced. All thesefailures can have a significantly negative impact upon the marketablecharacteristics and, therefore, potential commercial success for anypackaged food product and, as such, may have a significant negativeimpact upon the choices and quality provided to consumers of foodproducts.

The peelable third layer 350 of RF 310 can include/have, be formed withand/or be constructed having a material height or thickness of 2.23 mil.Various layers utilized in forming exemplary RF and/or RPD embodimentscan be constructed having a material thickness ranging from 0.5 to 5mil, more preferably between 0.5 and 2.5 mil. Alternative thicknessesfor non-adhesive and/or peelable layers are contemplated for use by thecurrent invention.

Given the identified specifications for RPD 300, the total thickness forRF 310 is 4.00-4.25 mil. It is contemplated that the RF may have a totalheight or thickness ranging from 1 to 8 mil or other alternative rangesof height or thickness as contemplated by those skilled in the art.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 4 a resealable packaging device 400(RPD) is provided in a bag configuration. The RPD 400 comprises a basefilm 410 connected to a resealable film (RF) 420, thereby defining anenclosure 480. The resealable film 420 has pull tab 421 for opening. TheRF 420 can be formed as a three or five-layer film structure inaccordance with the exemplary embodiments as defined herein. In theexemplary embodiment, RF 420 of RPD 400 comprises five component layers,similar to the ones described in 210 or 310 or a 3-component layer asdescribed in 110.

It is contemplated that the base film 410 and/or RF 420 can be formedfrom a flexible and breathable polymeric film(s). The base film 410 isof a heat sealable co-extruded and/or laminate design allowing it to besealed and/or bonded to the RF 420. Other techniques and/or technologiesfor connecting the RF with the base film can be utilized as describedherein and as may be contemplated by those skilled in the art. The basefilm 410 and RF 420 are formed and constructed from different materials,thereby, establishing the RPD 400 as a composite resealable packagingdevice in a manner similar to that as has been described previouslyherein.

Configured as a standard bag 412, the base film 410 forms and/or may beconstructed generally to provide a web made by connecting ends of asidewall 414, wherein the sidewall 414 is a continuous piece of materialand connecting the ends forms opposing sidewalls of the bag. Further,the web 412 is formed by joining together a top edge 416 and bottom edge418. In addition, the web may be formed to include gusset(s). The bag412 can be a pillow pack, lap or fin seal bag, bottom or side gussetedbag, K-seal bag or other bag configurations may be employed ascontemplated by those of ordinary skill in the art.

The enclosure (interior space) 480 is provided by the bag and allows forthe storage of food product(s) within. The dimensional characteristicsof the enclosure 480, and thusly, the storage capabilities of the bag,are defined by the volume inside the bag 412. The connection of thecontinuous piece of material and joining of the edge(s) that forms thebag provides it with an inner surface that defines enclosure 480 and aninterior environment and an outer surface 419 exposed to an exterior(ambient) environment.

The dimensional characteristics of the RPD 400 can be two hundredmillimeters (200 mm) long and two hundred fifty millimeters (250 mm)wide. It is further contemplated that one or more sides of the RPD 400may comprises an additional gusset, each gusset having a width of up toapproximately one hundred millimeters (100 mm). Other dimensionalspecifications for an exemplary RPD, configured as a bag, may beemployed as contemplated by those of ordinary skill in the art.

The base film 410 has, can be formed with and/or be constructed having amaterial height or thickness of 1.5 mil (38.1 μm). It is contemplatedthat the base film layer of any exemplary RF and/or RPD embodiment canbe formed and/or constructed having a material thickness ranging from0.1 to 5 mil, more preferably from 1.0 to 3.5 mil.

The base film 410 is die-cut to the desired shape for forming an opening438 when the RF 410 is sealed over opening 438 it forms a closedenclosure 480 and then peeled by pulling away the pull tab 421. It iscontemplated that the opening may be established in the base film usingvarious technologies and techniques as have been described previouslyherein. It is further contemplated that the base film may be cut inregistration using various technologies and techniques, such as beinglaser drilled or scored with mechanical or laser methods to any desiredshape to allow forming of an opening 438 during peeling. Preferably, thecut (die-cut) may be made once the layers of the RF are created, priorto forming wherein RPD 400.

In the preferred embodiment, a plurality of atmospheric controlattribute(s) 490 are provided in RF 420. It is contemplated that theatmospheric control attributes can be provided in base film 410. Theatmospheric control attributes 490 provide the breathable utility of theRF 410 and breathability for the interior atmosphere of enclosure 480 ofRPD 400. As such, the atmospheric control attribute(s) 490 promotes theoptimization of the interior atmosphere of the enclosure 480 and thequality protection of the food product packaged therein, by affectingthe respiring and gas sensitive food product packaged therein. It iscontemplated that additional atmospheric control attributes can beprovided in RPD 400 in base film 410 and/or RF 410. The affects that maybe provided by the current invention can promote the optimization of thevarious internal atmospheric conditions, including one or combination ofO₂, CO₂, N₂, C₂H₄ and H₂O vapor concentrations, in the enclosure withinwhich a food product is located. As described herein, this optimizationof enclosure atmospheric conditions for food product located therein caninclude, without limitation, the establishment, modulation and/ormaintenance of various amounts, ranges of amounts, concentrations,ratios and the like, of the presence of various gases, moisture content,chemical and such other atmospheric factors as may be contemplated aspresent in the internal atmosphere of the enclosure.

In the preferred embodiment, the atmospheric control attributes 490include ten (10) micro-perforations, wherein each micro-perforation hasa diameter of one hundred microns (100 μm) to two hundred and fortymicrons (240 μm). This configuration of the atmospheric controlattributes provides an open area of 7.85×10⁻⁸ to 4.52×10⁻⁷ m² for thepreferred embodiment. The configuration, location, number, size,density, open area and the like of the atmospheric control attribute(s)located in an exemplary RPD and/or RF can vary to accommodate varyingconfigurations of the base film 410, RF 420 and/or the use of the RPD400 with various food products without departing from the scope andspirit of the current invention. It is contemplated that one or more ofthe atmospheric control attributes can be differently configured fromthe others. Still further, it is contemplated that any additionalatmospheric control attributes may be similarly or differentlyconfigured in comparison with the atmospheric control attributes 490.

Various food products can be located within the enclosure 480 of RPD400. As described herein, these food products can include variousperishable and/or non-perishable food products. The RF 420 is attachedto base film 410 and covers the enclosure 480. The peelable layer of theRF 420 can be peeled away exposing opening 438 and exposing theenclosure 480. This allows access to the enclosure 480 and any itemstherein, such as a food product.

It is contemplated that the first layer, peelable layer or any otherlayers as indicated for these and other embodiments, can be printed onand include various designs and/or include a label. The printingtechniques employed for the current invention can include surfaceprinting, reverse printing and such other techniques as may becontemplated by those skilled in the art. The printing may take place onor a label may be placed on either the base film 410 and/or RF 420. Itis also contemplated that the printing and/or affixing of the label maytake place on a particular surface or side of the base film 410 and/orRF 420, more preferably on the surface or side that faces away from theenclosure and/or towards the environment outside the internalenvironment provided by the enclosure of the RF and/or RPD of thecurrent invention. The printing or label can cover an amount of thesurface area of the base film and/or RF, such amount can vary from allto a small percentage (>0.1%) of the total surface area of either thebase film and/or RF. It is contemplated that the current invention maynot include any printing or label or may include any amount of printingor labels. The printing and/or labeling does or does not, may or may notimpact upon any of the capabilities provided by the current invention.

As shown in FIG. 5A, a plurality of resealable packaging films,identified and shown as RFs 502, 520 and 522, is formed/constructed as aroll or lid stock 500. The RFs 502, 520 and/or 522 may be similarly ordifferently configured as described for RF 110, RF 210, RF 310 and RF420 employed with the various exemplary embodiments for forming RPD 100,200, 300 and 400. In preferred embodiments, the composition andconstruction of lid or roll stock 500 is similar to RF 110, 210, 310 and420 and as described previously. The lid stock 500 may be provided as athree-layer configuration such as that described for RF110 or afive-layer configuration such as that described for RF 210 or RF 310. Byway of example, and as may be similar for RF 520 and 522, RF 502 of lidstock or roll stock 500, comprises a first flexible base film 505,designed for heat sealing and printing, which includes a sealablesegment 506 connected with a removable section 507. The removablesection 507 defines an opening 510. A second flexible base film(peelable layer) 515 is connected to the first base film 505 via anadhesive, similar in configuration to that described for the exemplaryembodiments of FIGS. 1A through 4. As such, the peelable layer 515 canbe peeled from and resealed to the base film 505. The second flexiblebase film 515 includes a tab 517 to help with peeling and opening of thepeelable layer 515 from the base film 505. RF 502 includes primaryatmospheric control attribute 518 or a plurality of primary atmosphericcontrol attributes 518. The primary atmospheric control attributes 518are provided in and through peelable layer 515 and removable section507. As shown, RF 502 also includes secondary atmospheric controlattribute 550 or a plurality of secondary atmospheric control attributes550. The secondary atmospheric control attributes 550 are provided inand through base film 507. The primary and secondary atmospheric controlattributes provide a direct, and potentially an indirect, interactionbetween the interior atmosphere of an enclosure established for anexemplary resealable packaging device that includes an RF of the currentinvention connected with a storage container as described herein. Theseprimary and/or secondary atmospheric control attributes can provide thebreathable utility of the RF 502 and other RF embodiments as shown anddescribed and may be contemplated.

The removable section 507 and opening 510 can be provided using varioustechnologies and/or techniques, such as a registered die-cut, as hasbeen described previously. The removable section 507 is registered withan area 516 that is not die-cut and the layers, whether 3 or 5, areadhered together. The non-die-cut area 516 keeps the base film layer 505attached to the peelable layer 515 of RF 502 when the peelable layer 515is peeled away from the base film 505. When RF 502 is connected (sealed)to a container, such as container 520 shown in FIG. 5B, the area 516prevents the complete separation of the peelable layer 515 from RF 502when it is peeled back.

In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 5B, an RPD 530 having a RF 502connected to a storage container 540, thereby defining an enclosure 580,is provided. The composition and construction of RF 502 is similar to 3layered structure as RF 110 or a 5 layered structure as RF 210 or 310 asdescribed previously. The base film (sealant) layer 505 of RF 502 isdie-cut to form removable section 507 in a desired shape for forming theopening 510 when the RF 502 is sealed and then peeled. It is furthercontemplated that the sealant layer 505 may be cut using varioustechnologies and techniques, such as being laser drilled or scored withmechanical or laser methods to any desired shape to allow forming of anopening during peeling. Further, the preferred die-cut is rotary, andthe die-cut is registered with a non-die-cut area 516. Further to aidwith the peeling of the peelable layer 515 to expose the opening 510 andthe enclosure 580, RF 502 includes the small tab or flap 517 thatextends out from the container 540. The tab or flap 517 is generallypositioned opposite to the non-die-cut area 516. The sealant layer of RF502 near the tab or flap 517 is die-cut in such a way that the die-cutis on the edge of the container 540, while the flap extends out of thecontainer. On pulling the tab or flap 517 towards the non-die-cut area516, the die-cut promotes the separation of the peelable layer 515 via aweak adhesive layer. When the peelable layer 515 is peeled away thedie-cut promotes the removable section 507 being removed and creatingthe opening 510 to the enclosure 580 containing the food product 502 andthe peeling stops at the non-die-cut area 516. The area within theremovable section 507 and peelable layer 515 and non-die-cut area 516will have all the layers together similar to RF 110, if it is athree-layered structure or RF 210 or RF 310, if it is a five-layeredstructure.

The roll or lid stock 500 in one embodiment is one impression across(approximately up to 20 inches wide), or 2 impressions across(approximately up to 40 inches wide) or multiple impressions across(higher than 40 inches wide). The roll or lid stock length is generally500 to 2000 feet long.

The primary atmospheric control attribute(s) 518 promotes theoptimization of the interior atmosphere of the enclosure 580 and thequality protection of the food product packaged therein, by affectingthe respiring and gas sensitive food product packaged therein. Theaffects that may be provided by the current invention can promote theoptimization of the various internal atmospheric conditions, includingone or combination of O₂, CO₂, C₂H₄ and H₂O vapor concentrations, in theenclosure within which a food product is located. As described herein,this optimization of enclosure atmospheric conditions for food productlocated therein can include, without limitation, the establishment,modulation and/or maintenance of various amounts, ranges of amounts,concentrations, ratios and the like, of the presence of various gases,moisture content, chemical and such other atmospheric factors as may becontemplated as present in the internal atmosphere of the enclosure.

In the preferred embodiments 518 and 530, the RF 502, includes aplurality of primary atmospheric attributes 550. The plurality ofprimary atmospheric attributes is provided as three perforations perunit package, wherein each perforation has a diameter of six hundredmicrons (600 μm) to 800 microns (800 μm). This configuration of theatmospheric control attributes provides an open area of 8.45×10⁻⁷ to1.51×10⁻⁶ m² for the preferred embodiment. The configuration, location,number, size, density, open area and the like of the primary atmosphericcontrol attribute(s) located in an exemplary RF 502 can vary toaccommodate varying configurations for various food products withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the current invention. It iscontemplated that any of the various configurations for the perforationtechnology that has been described herein may be employed for thecurrent embodiment.

In the exemplary embodiments of RF 502 and RPD 530, a plurality ofsecondary atmospheric attributes 550 are included. Each of the secondaryatmospheric attributes can be provided as a macro-perforation having asize of 1 to 12 millimeters in diameter (mm), preferably, 3 to 6.5 mm indiameter. It is to be understood that the exemplary embodiment(s),including the plurality of secondary atmospheric attributes 550, issuited for respiring moisture sensitive products such as tomato,blueberry, strawberry, grapes, cherry and alike wherein, the removal ofmoisture through macro-perforations is key to preventing an undesirablecolor change in the pressure sensitive adhesive layer of RPD (PSA turnswhite in color with moisture and oxygen exposure). In the currentembodiments, the RF 502 and RPD 530 is shown including both theplurality of primary and secondary atmospheric attributes.

As shown in RF 520, from roll/lid-stock 500, it is contemplated inalternative embodiments that the RF 520 include a plurality of thesecondary atmospheric control attributes 550 through the base film. Thesecond flexible film (peelable layer) 511 of RF 520 does not includeatmospheric control attributes in this embodiment. It is furthercontemplated that either or both of the RF 502, 520 and 522 or RPD 530may include either the primary or secondary atmospheric attributes, butnot both. Such configurations may provide similar promotionalcapabilities as has been described herein for the current invention.

Referring now to FIG. 6 a method 600 of prolonging the shelf-life of aperishable food product is shown. In a first step 610 a perishable foodproduct is selected. The perishable food product may be fresh produce,such as fruit(s) and/or vegetables. After selecting the food product, aresealable packaging device including an atmospheric control attributeconfiguration providing a total open area is selected in step 620. Theresealable packaging device and total open area may be selected based onthe gas transmission properties of the material used to construct theresealable packaging device and/or the ability of the atmosphericcontrol attributes to provide a desired transmission rate for O₂ and/orCO₂ and thereby promote the optimization of the interior atmospherewithin which the food product will be stored. Additionally, therespiration rate, size, weight, and dimensions of the food product maybe a factor in selecting a resealable packaging device of the currentinvention. The optimized internal atmosphere promoted by the currentinvention provides a quality preservation functionality promoting themaintenance of the quality of the food product and extends theshelf-life of the food product during the life-cycle of the food productwithin the resealable packaging device. After selecting the resealablepackaging device, in step 630, the perishable food product is placedwithin the enclosure of the resealable packaging device and is sealedabout the food product. The seal is provided by the exemplary embodimentof the RF employed with the resealable packaging device and provides areleasable and resealable connection.

Additional steps contemplated for the current invention includeselecting the resealable packaging device and the total open area basedat least in part on the ability of the materials, including adhesive(s),and/or atmospheric control attributes to provide a desired transmissionrate for water vapor. The method further contemplates the step ofselecting a resealable packaging device based on a combination ofvarious atmospheric control attributes that provides a cumulative totalopen area.

Additional method embodiments for the current invention can comprisemethods of manufacturing RFs and/or resealable packaging devices. Thesemethods can include a step of selecting one or more materials to be usedin constructing the films, components or layers of the exemplaryconstruct. The material selection can further include the step ofdetermining a desired permeability characteristic for the material. Themethod can further include the step of determining the total open areato be provided by the construct. The method further includes the step(s)of determining the type, number and location of atmospheric controlattribute or combination of such attributes to be included in providingthe total open area.

EXAMPLES

The following examples provide a comparison of the micro-perforationpackaging devices of the present invention and conventional(non-perforated) packaging devices. Comparison of performancecharacteristics of the packaging devices and the food products containedwithin are detailed for quality and shelf-life.

While broccoli, various leafy greens, carrots, pineapple andriced-cauliflower have been used as test models for this invention, theteachings of this invention may easily be extended to other food productofferings that have perishable/fresh food products, such as freshproduce and/or meats, in their ingredient mixes.

The examples below are used to illustrate the benefit of exemplaryembodiments of the current invention providing breathable peel resealstructures (e.g., resealable packaging devices) over non breathable peelreseal structure (control) in maintaining quality and shelf life.Further, examples also show the ability of invention to continuemaintain quality even when the lid is peeled and resealed. Standardamorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET) and poly-propylene (PP)trays with 5 or 16-ounce (oz) food product were used for the tests.Table top tray sealing machine ER-900 with appropriate collar was usedto seal 5 oz, while hot iron press was used to seal the 16 oz trays. Inboth cases sealing was done airtight to ensure no leak from the seal.

Example 1a compares the shelf life of broccoli florets that were packedin APET trays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal and breathablepeel reseal. One pound of broccoli was packed in control and in aresealable packaging device of the current invention and the sampleswere held at 5° C. and 22° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used for thetest. The resealable packaging device included twenty-five (25)micro-perforations of one hundred twenty microns (120 μm) in diameter.Assuming the opening of the micro-perforation is circular, the surfacearea for each opening is equal to πr², where π is equal to 3.14 and r isequal to (60×10⁻⁶ m) and therefore r² is equal to 3.6×10⁻⁹ m². Thus,each opening provides 3.14×(3.6×10⁻⁹ m²) which is equal to 1×10⁻⁸ m² ofopen area. Therefore, the open area provided by the twenty-fivemicro-perforations may be substantially equal to 25×(1×10⁻⁸ m²) whichequals 2.8×10⁻⁷ m². The position of the micro-perforations was designedto allow continued functionality even when the resealable packagingdevice is opened and resealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.68 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Storage at 22° C. Control Bloating was observed afterBloating was observed within 2 days. On opening strong 24 hours. Onopening strong off-flavor noticed indicating off-flavor noticedindicating fermentation. fermentation. Invention Florets remained greenand Florets remained green and quality maintained for 21 qualitymaintained for 6 days days

Example 1b compares the shelf life of broccoli florets that were packedin APET trays and sealed with invention. One pound of broccoli waspacked in control and in a resealable packaging device of the currentinvention and the samples were held at 5° C. The set-up was same asexample 1a. In this example, the resealable packaging device was openedon day 7 and resealed. The process was repeated every 3 days, until day21. The control package bloated and had a strong off-odor on day 3, Theresealable packaging device with broccoli maintained quality inside thepackage and the opening and resealing did not affect the quality of theproduct packed.

Example 2 compares the shelf life of pineapple spears that were packedin APET trays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal and breathablepeel reseal. One pound of pineapple spears was packed in control and ina resealable packaging device of the current invention and the sampleswere held at 5° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used for the test. Theresealable packaging device included four (4) micro-perforations of onehundred microns (100 μm) in diameter. Assuming the opening of themicro-perforation is circular, the surface area for each opening isequal to πr², where r is equal to (50×10⁻⁶ m)² and therefore r² is equalto 2.5×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, each opening provides 3.14×(2.5×10⁻⁹ m²) which isequal to 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² of open area. Therefore, the open area provided bythe four micro-perforations may be substantially equal to 4× (7.85×10⁻⁹m²) which equals 3×10⁻⁸ m². The position of the micro-perforations wasdesigned to allow continued functionality even when the resealablepackaging device is opened and resealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.70 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Control Bloating was observed after 3 days. On openingstrong off-flavor and tissue breakdown noticed indicating fermentation.Invention Color was maintained and the pineapple spears had anacceptable texture for 14 days

Opening and resealing of the resealable packaging device on days 7, 10and 13 did not affect the quality of the product.

Example 3a compares the shelf life of spinach that were packed in APETtrays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal and breathable peelreseal, 5 oz of spinach was packed in control and in a resealablepackaging device of the current invention and the samples were held at5° C. and 22° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used for the test. Theresealable packaging device included twelve (12) micro-perforations ofone hundred fifty microns (150 μm) in diameter. Assuming the opening ofthe micro-perforation is circular, the surface area for each opening isequal to πr², where r is equal to (75×10⁻⁶ m)² and therefore r² is equalto 5.625×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, each opening provides 3.14×(5.625×10⁻⁹ m²) whichis equal to 2×10⁻⁸ m² of open area. Therefore, the open area provided bythe twelve micro-perforations may be substantially equal to 12×(2×10⁻⁸m²) which equals 2.1×10⁻⁷ m². The position of the micro-perforations wasdesigned to allow continued functionally even when the resealablepackaging device is opened and resealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.64 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Storage at 22° C. Control Bloating was observedBloating was Observed within after 2 days. On opening 18 hours. Onopening strong strong off-flavor noticed off-flavor noticed indicatingindicating fermentation. fermentation. Leaves softened Leaves softenedand leak and turned mashy. observed. Invention Leaves remained greenLeaves remained green and and quality maintained quality maintained for6 days for 21 days.

Example 3b compares the shelf life of spinach that were packed in APETtrays and sealed with invention, 5 oz of spinach was packed in controland within a resealable packaging device of the current invention andthe samples were held at 5° C. The set-up was same as example 1a, inthis example, the resealable packaging device was opened on day 7 andresealed. The process was repeated every 3 days, until day 21. Thecontrol package bloated and had a strong off-odor by the end of day 2.The spinach in the exemplary embodiment maintained quality inside thepackage and the opening and resealing did not affect the quality of theproduct packed.

Example 4 compares the shelf life of strawberries that were packed inAPET trays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal and breathablepeel reseal. 5 oz of strawberries was packed in control and within aresealable packaging device of the current invention and the sampleswere held at 5° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used for the test. Theresealable packaging device included four (4) micro-perforations of onehundred microns (100 μm) in diameter. Assuming the opening of themicro-perforation is circular, the surface area for each opening isequal to πr², where r is equal to (50×10⁻⁶ m)² and therefore r² is equalto 2.5×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, each opening provides 3.14×(2.5×10⁻⁹ m²) which isequal to 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² of open area. Therefore, the open area provided bythe four micro-perforations may be substantially equal to 4×(7.85×10⁻⁹m²) which equals 3×10⁻⁸ m². The position of the micro-perforations wasdesigned to allow continued functionality even when the resealablepackaging device is opened and resealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.70 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Control Bloating was Observed after 4 days. On openingthe fruit was soft and started to leak juice Invention Color wasmaintained and the strawberries had an acceptable texture for 14 days

Opening and resealing of the resealable packaging device on days 7, 10and 13 did not affect the quality of the product.

Example 5a compares the shelf life of riced veggie mix, containingcauliflower, broccoli and carrot, that were packed in APET trays andsealed with non-breathable peel reseal and breathable peel reseal. 5 ozof the riced mix was packed in control and within a resealable packagingdevice of the current invention and the samples were held at 5° C. and22° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used for the test. The resealablepackaging device included eight (8) microperforations of one hundredmicrons (100 μm) in diameter. Assuming the opening of themicro-perforation is circular, the surface area for each opening isequal to πr², where r is equal to (50×10⁻⁶ m)² and therefore r² is equalto 2.5×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, each opening provides 3.14×(2.5×10⁻⁹ m²) which isequal to 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² of open area. Therefore, the open area provided bythe eight micro-perforations may be substantially equal to 8×(7.85×10⁻⁹m²) which equals 6×10⁻⁸ m². The position of the micro-perforations wasdesigned to allow continued functionality even when the resealablepackaging device is opened and resealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.56 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Storage at 22° C. Control Bloating was observed after 2Bloating was observed in 24 days. On opening strong off- hours. Onopening strong off- flavor noticed indicating flavor noticed indicatingfermentation fermentation. Invention Quality maintained for 21 Qualitywas acceptable for 6 days days

Example 5b compares the shelf life of riced veggie mix that were packedin APET trays and sealed with invention. 5 oz of riced veggie mix waspacked in control and within the resealable packaging device of thecurrent invention and the samples were held at 5° C. The set-up was sameas example 1a. In this example, the peelable structure was opened on day7 and resealed. The process was repeated ever 3 days, until day 21. Thecontrol package bloated and had a strong off-odor by the end of day 2.The riced veggies within the resealable packaging device maintainedquality inside the package and the opening and resealing did not affectthe quality of the product packed.

Example 6a compares the shelf life of carrot spirals that were packed inAPET trays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal and breathablepeel reseal. 5 oz of the carrot spirals was packed in control and withina resealable packaging device of the current invention and the sampleswere held at 5° C. and 22° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used for thetest. The resealable packaging device included nine (9)micro-perforations of one hundred microns (100 μm) in diameter. Assumingthe opening of the micro-perforation is circular, the surface area foreach opening is equal to πr², where r is equal to (50×10⁻⁶ m)² thereforer² is equal to 2.5×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, each opening provides 3.14×2.5×10⁻⁹ m²which is equal to 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² of open area. Therefore, the open areaprovided by the nine micro-perforations may be substantially equal to9×(7.85×10⁻⁹ m²) which equals 7×10⁻⁸ m². The position of themicro-perforations was designed to allow continued functionality evenwhen the resealable packaging device is opened and resealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.56 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Storage at 22° C. Control Bloating was observed after 2Bloating was observed in 24 days. On opening strong off- hours. Onopening strong off- flavor noticed indicating flavor noticed indicatingfermentation fermentation. Invention Quality maintained for 21 Qualitywas acceptable for 6 days days

Example 6b compares the shelf life of carrot spirals that were packed inAPET trays and sealed within a resealable packaging device of thecurrent invention. 5 oz of carrot spirals was packed in control and theresealable packaging device, and the samples were held at 5° C. Theset-up was same as example 1a. In this example, the resealable packagingdevice was opened on day 7 and resealed. The process was repeated every3 days, until day 21. The control package bloated and had a strongoff-odor by day 3. The carrot spirals in the resealable packaging devicemaintained quality inside the package and the opening and resealing didnot affect the quality of the product packed.

Example 7a compares the shelf life of red kale that were packed in APETtrays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal and breathable peelreseal. 5 oz of red kale was packed in control and in the resealablepackaging device of the current invention and the samples were held at5° C. and 22° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used for the test. Theresealable packaging device included fifteen (15) micro-perforations ofone hundred microns (100 μm) in diameter. Assuming the opening of themicro-perforation is circular, the surface area for each opening isequal to πr², where r is equal to (50×10⁻⁶ m)² therefore r² is equal to2.5×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, each opening provides 3.14×(2.5×10⁻⁹ m²) which isequal to 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² of open area. Therefore, the open area provided bythe fifteen micro-perforations may be substantially equal to15×(7.85×10⁻⁹ m²) which equals 1.2×10⁻⁷ m². The position of themicro-perforations was designed to allow continued functionality evenwhen the resealable packaging device is opened and resealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.59 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Storage at 22° C. Control Bloating was observedBloating was Observed after 24 after 3 days. On opening hours. Onopening strong off- strong off-flavor noticed flavor noticed indicatingindicating fermentation. fermentation. Leaves softened and turned mushy.Invention Leaves remained green Leaves remained green/ red hue andquality maintained and quality maintained for 10 for 21 days. days

Example 7b compares the shelf life of red kale that were packed in APETtrays and sealed within a resealable packaging device of the currentinvention. 5 oz of red kale was packed in control and the resealablepackaging device and the samples were held at 5° C. The set-up was sameas example 1a. In this example, the resealable packaging device wasopened on day 7 and resealed. The process was repeated every 3 days,until day 21. The control package bloated and had a strong off-odor bythe end of day 3. The red kale in the resealable packaging devicemaintained quality inside the package and the opening and resealing didnot affect the quality of the product packed.

Example 8 compares the shelf life of Romaine heart lettuce that werepacked in APET trays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal andbreathable peel reseal. 5 oz of Romaine heart lettuce was packed incontrol and a resealable packaging device and the samples were held at5° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used for the test. The resealablepackaging device included one (1) micro-perforations of ninety microns(90μ) in diameter. Assuming the opening of the micro-perforation iscircular, the surface area for each opening is equal to πr², where r isequal to (45×10⁻⁶ m)² therefore r² is equal to 2.025×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, eachopening provides 3.14×(2.025×10⁻⁹ m²) which is equal to 6.3585×10⁻⁹ m²of open area. Therefore, the open area provided by the onemicro-perforation may be substantially equal to 1×(6.3585×10⁻⁹ m²) whichequals 6.3585×10⁻⁹ m². The position of the micro-perforations wasdesigned to allow continued functionality even when the resealablepackaging device is opened and resealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.52 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Control Bloating was observed after 6 days. On openingthe leaves had a strong off odor showing anaerobiosis Invention Thelettuce had a crunchy texture and good color. No issues were found for21 days

Opening and resealing of the resealable packaging device on days 7, 10,13, 16, and 19 did not affect the quality of the product. The controlhowever showed bloating on day 6 and opening and resealing of theresealable packaging device on day 7 caused severe pinking on the cutend of the lettuce hearts.

Example 9 compares the shelf life of salad mix, containing baby arugula,baby spinach, frisee and radicchio that were packed in APET trays andsealed with non-breathable peel reseal and breathable peel reseal. 5 ozof salad mix was packed in control and a resealable packaging device andthe samples were held at 5° C. Standard APET tray sizes were used forthe test. The resealable packaging device included ten (10)micro-perforations of one hundred and twenty microns (120 μm) indiameter. Assuming the opening of the micro-perforation is circular, thesurface area for each opening is equal to πr², where r is equal to(60×10⁻⁶ m)² therefore r² is equal to 3.6×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, each openingprovides 3.14×(3.6×10⁻⁹ m²) which is equal to 1×10⁻⁸ m² of open area.Therefore, the open area provided by the ten micro-perforations may besubstantially equal to 10×(1×10⁻⁸ m²) which equals 1.1×10⁻⁷ m². Theposition of the micro-perforations was designed to allow continuedfunctionality even when the resealable packaging device is opened andresealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.58 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Control Bloating was observed after 3 days. On openingthe leaves had a strong off odor showing anaerobiosis Invention Thesalad mix had a crunchy texture and good color. No issues were found for21 days

Opening and resealing of the resealable packaging device on days 7, 10,13, 16, and 19 did not affect the quality of the product.

Example 10 compares the shell life of lunchables packed in compartmenttrays, containing grilled chicken, cheese, salad mix and strawberriesthat were packed in APET trays and sealed with non-breathable peelreseal and breathable peel reseal. The lunchable was packed in controland a resealable packaging device and the samples were held at 5° C. Theresealable packaging device included a total of five (5)micro-perforations of one hundred microns (100 μm) in diameterregistered in specific compartments to protect the quality of theproduct. Assuming the opening of the micro-perforation is circular, thesurface area for each opening is equal to πr², where r is equal to(50×10⁻⁶ m)² therefore r² is equal to 2.5×10⁻⁹ m². Thus, each openingprovides 3.14×(2.5×10⁻⁹ m²) which is equal to 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² of open area.Therefore, the open area provided by the five micro-perforations may besubstantially equal to 5×(7.85×10⁻⁹ m²) which equals 4×10⁻⁸ m². Theposition of the micro-perforations was designed to allow continuedfunctionality even when the resealable packaging device is opened andresealed.

The use of atmospheric control attributes and inherent gas transmissionproperties of the materials can provide the resealable packaging deviceembodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 0.54 g/100sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention, asshown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Control Bloating; was observed after 3 days in saladmix and strawberry compartment. Invention The salad mix had a crunchytexture and good color. Strawberries maintained texture and color for 14days

Opening and resealing of the resealable packaging device on days 7, 10,and 13 did not affect the quality of the product.

Example 11 evaluates the feasibility of using PP trays instead of APETtrays on the products tested in examples 1, 2, 5, 8, 9 and 10. Thenumber of micro-perforations were maintained the same as the exemplaryembodiments of the current invention in the examples. The results of thebreathable peel reseal film constructed from 3-layer coextruded film onPP trays were consistent to the observations made with APET trays.

Example 12 illustrates the bond strength of the peelable structure in anexemplary embodiment of the current invention provided as a five layeredbreathable composite peel/reseal film structure. The peelable layer isadhered to the heat sealable layer through a weak adhesive polymer layerand the adhesive covers the entire surface of the peelable layer. Inthis example the peelable layer cannot be separated completely from theheat sealable layer as the die-cut in the peelable layer is registeredwith a portion left non-scored for making sure the peelable layer staysattached to the sealable layer on one end for aid in resealing. Thetotal thickness of the structure is 2.5 mil. ASTM method was utilized toevaluate the bond strength of the peelable structure and the change inbond strength with each peel and reseal. The results, as shown in FIG.7, indicate that the bond strength is greatest the first time peeling asexpected at 0.33 lb/in. The bond strength decreases with repeatedpeeling and resealing and finally plateaus at 0.14-0.15 lb/in.

Example 13 illustrates the bond strength of the peelable structure inthe three layered breathable composite peel/reseal film structure. Thepeelable layer is adhered to the heat sealable layer through a weakadhesive polymer layer and the adhesive is registered to selective areabetween the peelable and heat sealable layer. In this example thepeelable layer is more like a label adhered to the heat sealable layer.The total thickness of the structure is 4.2 mil. ASTM method wasutilized to evaluate the bond strength of the peelable structure and thechange in bond strength with each peel and reseal. The results, as shownin FIG. 8, indicate that the bond strength is greatest the first timepeeling as expected at 0.76 lb/in. The bond strength decreasesdrastically to 0.42 lb/in with the second peel/reseal and finallyplateaus at 0.28-0.31 lb/in with subsequent peel/reseal.

Example 14 compares the shelf life of blueberry that were packed in APETtrays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal film (water basedadhesive), and breathable peel reseal film (water based adhesive). 5 ozof blueberries were packed in control and a resealable packaging deviceand the samples were held at 5° C. Standard APET tray sizes were usedfor the test. The resealable packaging device included a plurality ofatmospheric control attributes. In the current resealable packagingdevice embodiment, the plurality of atmospheric control attributescomprises four (4) macro-perforations of six millimeters (6 mm) indiameter. Assuming the opening of the macro-perforation is circular, thesurface area for each opening is equal to πr², where r is equal to(3000×10⁻⁶ m)² therefore πr² is equal to 7.07×10⁻⁶ m². Thus, the openarea provided by the four macro-perforations may be substantially equalto 2.83×10⁻⁵ m².

These atmospheric control attributes provide the resealable packagingdevice embodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of16.5 g/100 sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the currentinvention, as shown in the table below, promotes desirable atmosphericconditions within the resealable packaging device and thereby providesall the advantages of the current invention. These advantages includethe promotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantlyreduced deterioration for longer periods of time and prolongedshelf-life for the food product. The control device, with thenon-breathable peel reseal film provides a Moisture Vapor TransmissionRate (MTVR) of 0.52 g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, thislack of MTVR control fails to provide any of the advantages of thecurrent invention and thereby the food product quality is significantlydeteriorated, the observation and/or presence of undesirable marketablecharacteristics is seen earlier and may be more pronounced andshelf-life is significantly reduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Control Bloating was observed after 5 days. On openingthe fruit was soft with strong off-odor notes showing anaerobiosis. Thewater-based adhesive turned into white glue which affected thepresentation and marketing attributes of the product. Invention Thefruit had a firm texture and good flavor up to 26 days of holding at 5 °C.. The water-based adhesive did not change color and the package lookednormal

Opening and resealing of the resealable packaging device on days 7, 20,and 26 did not affect the quality of the product.

Example 15 compares the shelf life of grape tomato that were packed inAPET trays and sealed with non-breathable peel reseal film (water basedadhesive), and breathable peel reseal film (water based adhesive). 5 ozof grape tomatoes were packed in control and a resealable packagingdevice and the samples were held at 5° C. Standard APET tray sizes wereused for the test. The resealable packaging device included a pluralityof atmospheric control attributes. In the current resealable packagingdevice embodiment, the plurality of atmospheric control attributescomprises four (4) macro-perforations of twelve millimeters (12 mm) indiameter. Assuming the opening of the macro-perforation is circular, thesurface area for each opening is equal to πr², where r is equal to(6000×10⁻⁶ m)² therefore πr² is equal to 2.83×10⁻⁵ m². Thus, the openarea provided by the four macro-perforations may be substantially equalto 1.13×10⁻⁴ m².

These atmospheric control attributes provide the resealable packagingdevice embodiment a total Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 65g/100 sq. in/day. This MVTR control provided by the current invention,as shown in the table below, promotes desirable atmospheric conditionswithin the resealable packaging device and thereby provides all theadvantages of the current invention. These advantages include thepromotion of desirable marketable characteristics, significantly reduceddeterioration for longer periods of time and prolonged shelf-life forthe food product. The control device, with the non-breathable peelreseal film provides a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MTVR) of 0.52g/100 sq. in/day. As shown in the table below, this lack of MTVR controlfails to provide any of the advantages of the current invention andthereby the food product quality is significantly deteriorated, theobservation and/or presence of undesirable marketable characteristics isseen earlier and may be more pronounced and shelf-life is significantlyreduced.

The results are shown in table below:

Storage at 5° C. Control Bloating was observed after 3 days. On openingthe fruit was soft with strong off-odor notes showing anaerobiosis. Thewater-based adhesive turned into white glue which affected thepresentation and marketing attributes of the product. Invention Thefruit had a firm texture and good aroma up to 18 days of holding at 5 °C.. The water-based adhesive did not change color and the package lookednormal

Opening and resealing of the resealable packaging device on days 7, 15,and 18 did not affect the quality of the product.

The current invention provides significant benefits over the prior artand/or previous food product storage technologies. The exemplaryembodiments of the resealable films, resealable packaging devices andmethods of the instant invention can be used by various food productsuppliers/distributors and consumers for promoting the extension of theshelf life of food products stored within, whether purchased as items insuch packages and/or as loose items from various outlets, such assupermarkets, convenience stores or the like. Use of the currentinvention also allows food products to be packed, distributed, marketedand/or consumed in units of varying amounts (single to multiple items),volumes, weights and sizes further supporting marketing applicationsthat may be geared towards more non-traditional outlets, such as theconvenience store market. Still further, the food products stored inembodiments of the current invention promote quality preservation bymore effectively withstanding the negative conditions experienced duringtransportation throughout the distribution and handling from the countryor countries of production to the consuming markets than what had beenprovided previously in the art.

The improved quality preservation capabilities provided by the currentinvention hold food product at more preferred stages of ripeness forprolonged periods, thereby giving consumers an opportunity to consumefood products at the preferred stages of ripeness. This qualitypreservation can promote additional commercially advantageouscharacteristics, such as further promoting improved per capitaconsumption, reducing wastage at the supermarket and household levels,promoting new product offering capabilities (i.e., productdifferentiation and brand recognition) and/or improving consumersatisfaction.

The invention has been described with references to various preferredembodiments. While specific values, relationships, materials and stepshave been set forth for purposes of describing concepts of theinvention, it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art thatnumerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the invention asshown in the specific embodiments without departing from the spirit orscope of the basic concepts and operating principles of the invention asbroadly described. It should be recognized that, in the light of theabove teachings, those skilled in the art can modify those specificswithout departing from the invention taught herein. Having now fully setforth the preferred embodiments and certain modifications of the conceptunderlying the present invention, various other embodiments as well ascertain variations and modifications of the embodiments herein shown anddescribed will obviously occur to those skilled in the art upon becomingfamiliar with such underlying concept. It is intended to include allsuch modifications, alternatives and other embodiments insofar as theycome within the scope of the appended claims or equivalents thereof. Itshould be understood, therefore, that the invention may be practicedotherwise than as specifically set forth herein. Consequently, thepresent embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrativeand not restrictive.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A resealable packaging device, comprising:a first flexible base film, designed for heat sealing, including aprimary segment and a removable segment that is scored in a desiredshape, removably connected with at least a portion of the primarysegment, to provide an opening when a second flexible base film ispeeled away from the first flexible base film; one or more atmosphericcontrol attributes in the flexible base films, wherein the first andsecond flexible base films are bonded together via a pressure sensitiveadhesive allowing the second flexible base film to be peeled away fromthe first flexible base film; the one or more atmospheric controlattributes, configured as a perforation, providing the first and secondflexible base films a total open area of 1.5×10⁻¹¹ m² to 1.5×10⁻⁴ m² andhaving a length dimension that penetrates through the second flexiblebase film and the first flexible base film; wherein the pressuresensitive adhesive is a partially water vapor permeable adhesive that inconjunction with the atmospheric control attributes, provides atransmission rate based on units of grams per 100 square inches per dayof 0.01 or higher for water vapor content present in an interioratmosphere of the resealable packaging device; a container configuredwith a base section connected to one or more side wall sections forminga storage structure having an open top edge for connecting with thefirst flexible base film, wherein the first flexible base film inconnection with the top edge forms an inner surface defining anenclosure within which the interior atmosphere can be provided and foodproduct can be stored and an outer surface in contact with an exteriorenvironment; and wherein the atmospheric control attributes provides theenclosure, when closed, an oxygen transmission rate between the interioratmosphere and exterior environment of at least 50 cc/100-sq inch/daywhich allows respiration of the food product packaged within theenclosure and maintenance of the interior atmosphere with an O₂ contentof ≥0.5%, CO₂ content of ≥1% and relative humidity of ≥60% during atleast a portion of the food product life-cycle within the enclosure. 2.The resealable packaging device of claim 1, wherein the atmosphericcontrol attributes provided are configured in at least one of (i)twenty-five (25) micro-perforations of one hundred twenty microns (120μm) in diameter providing a total open area of 2.8×10⁻⁷ m²; (ii) four(4) micro-perforations of one hundred microns (100 μm) in diameterproviding a total open area of 3×10⁻⁸ m²; (iii) eight (8)micro-perforations of one hundred microns (100 μm) in diameter providinga total open area of 6×10⁻⁸ m²; (iv) nine (9) micro-perforations of onehundred microns (100 μm) in diameter providing a total open area of7×10⁻⁸ m²; (v) fifteen (15) micro-perforations of one hundred microns(100 μm) in diameter providing a total open area of 1.2×10⁻⁷ m²; (vi)one (1) micro-perforations of ninety microns (90μ) in diameter providinga total open area of 6.3585×10⁻⁹ m²; (vii) ten (10) micro-perforationsof one hundred and twenty microns (120 μm) in diameter providing a totalopen area of 1.1×10⁻⁷ m²; and (viii) five (5) micro-perforations of onehundred microns (100 μm) in diameter providing a total open area 4×10⁻⁸m².
 3. The resealable packaging device of claim 1, wherein the total gastransmission rate of oxygen is, in units of cubic centimeters per 100square inches per day, 50-100,000.
 4. The resealable packaging device ofclaim 1, wherein the total gas transmission rate of carbon dioxide is,in units of cubic centimeters per 100 square inches per day,100-200,000.
 5. The resealable packaging device of claim 1, wherein thetotal transmission rate of water vapor is, in units of grams per 100square inches per day is, 0.01-100.
 6. The resealable packaging deviceof claim 1, wherein the resealable segment of the first flexible basefilm is between at least one of 25% to 75% of the total surface area ofthe first flexible base film.
 7. The resealable packaging device ofclaim 1, wherein, the surface energy of the flexible base films to whichthe pressure sensitive adhesive is applied is from 30 to 70 dynes/cm²,more preferably 35 to 60 dynes/cm².
 8. The resealable packaging deviceof claim 1, wherein the pressure sensitive adhesive bond strength isfrom 0.1 to 2.5 lbs/inch, more preferably from 0.2 to 2.0 lbs/inch. 9.The resealable packaging device of claim 1, wherein RF can modulate gastransmission rate such that for a period of time the interior atmospherecan comprise an O₂ (content of 0.5% to 20%, preferably >2% orpreferably >5% and less than 15%), CO₂ (content of 1% to 25%,preferably >2% and <15%), and a relative humidity (RH) equal to orgreater than 60%, more preferably 90% to 100%; OR an O₂ content of≥0.5%, CO₂ content of ≥1% and relative humidity of ≥60%.
 10. Theresealable packaging device of claim 1, wherein the interior atmospherewith a preferred ratio of CO₂ to O₂ ranging from 1:1 to 50:1 or 1:1 to1:50 is maintained.
 11. The resealable packaging device of claim 1,wherein the perforations comprise micro-perforations having a diameterof 1-600 μm and are present at a density of 1-100 micro-perforations perunit package and the micro-perforations can further comprise at leastone diameter size of: (i) 75 microns (75 μm) providing a per perforationopen area of 4.415625×10⁻⁹ m²; (ii) 90 microns (90 μm) providing a perperforation open area of 6.3585×10⁻⁹ m²; (iii) 100 microns (100 μm)providing a per perforation open area of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m²; (iv) 120 microns(120 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²; (v) 130microns (130 μm) providing a per perforation open area of 1×10⁻⁸ m²;(vi) 150 microns (150 μm) providing a per perforation open area of2×10⁻⁸ m²; and (vii) 240 microns (240 μm) providing a per perforationopen area of 5×10⁻⁸ m².
 12. The resealable packaging device of claim 11,wherein the micro-perforations comprise at least one of (i) one (1) toone hundred (1-100) micro-perforations, wherein each micro-perforationhas a diameter of one hundred microns (100 μm); (ii) one to one hundred(1-100) micro-perforations, wherein each micro-perforation has adiameter of one hundred thirty microns (130 μm); (iii) one to onehundred and fifty (1-150) micro-perforations, wherein eachmicro-perforation has a diameter of approximately seventy-five microns(75 μm); and (iv) ten (10) micro-perforations, wherein eachmicro-perforation has a diameter of one hundred microns (100 μm) to twohundred and forty microns (240 μm).
 13. The resealable packaging deviceof claim 12, wherein the total open area provided by the atmosphericcontrol attributes ranges from at least one of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² to 7.85×10⁻⁷m²; 1.33×10⁻⁸ m² to 1.33×10⁻⁶ m²; 4.42×10⁻⁹ m² to 6.62×10⁻⁷ m²; and7.85×10⁻⁸ m² to 4.52×10⁻⁷ m².
 14. The resealable packaging device ofclaim 1, wherein the perforations comprise macro-perforations having adiameter greater than six hundred microns (600 μm) and are present at adensity of 1-20 macro-perforations per unit package.
 15. The resealablepackaging device of claim 14, wherein the macro-perforations comprise atleast one of (i) three perforations per unit package, wherein eachperforation has a diameter of six hundred microns (600 μm) to 800microns (800 μm) and provides a total open area of 8.45×10⁻⁷ m² to1.51×10⁻⁶ m²; (ii) a size of thirteen (13) to thirty (30) millimeters indiameter; and (iii) a size of 1 to 12 millimeters in diameter (mm),preferably, 3 to 6.5 mm in diameter.
 16. A resealable packaging device,comprising: a first flexible base film, designed for heat sealing,including a primary segment and a removable segment that is scored in adesired shape, removably connected with at least a portion of theprimary segment, to provide an opening when a second flexible base filmis peeled away from the first flexible base film; a third flexible basefilm, designed for bonding, having a bottom side laminated to a top sideof the second flexible base film, the third flexible base film having atop side, wherein the top side includes one or more various identifiers;one or more atmospheric control attributes in the flexible base films,wherein a top side of the first flexible base film and a bottom side ofthe second flexible base film are bonded together via a pressuresensitive adhesive allowing the second flexible base film to be peeledaway from the first flexible base film; the one or more atmosphericcontrol attributes, configured as a perforation, providing the flexiblebase films a total open area of 1.5×10⁻¹¹ m² to 1.5×10⁻⁴ m² and having alength dimension that penetrates through the third flexible base film,second flexible base film and the first flexible base film; wherein thepressure sensitive adhesive is a partially water vapor permeableadhesive that in conjunction with the atmospheric control attributes,provides a transmission rate based on units of grams per 100 squareinches per day of 0.01 or higher for water vapor content present in aninterior atmosphere of the resealable packaging device; a containerconfigured with a base section connected to one or more side wallsections forming a storage structure having an open top edge forconnecting with a bottom side of the first flexible base film, whereinthe first flexible base film in connection with the top edge forms aninner surface defining an enclosure within which the interior atmospherecan be provided and food product can be stored and an outer surface incontact with an exterior environment; and wherein the atmosphericcontrol attributes provides the enclosure, when closed, an oxygentransmission rate between the interior atmosphere and exteriorenvironment of at least 50 cc/100-sq inch/day which allows respirationof the food product packaged within the enclosure and maintenance of theinterior atmosphere with an O₂ content of ≥0.5%, CO₂ content of ≥1% andrelative humidity of ≥60% during at least a portion of the food productlife-cycle within the enclosure.
 17. The resealable packaging device ofclaim 16, wherein the total open area provided by the atmosphericcontrol attributes ranges from at least one of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² to 7.85×10⁻⁷m²; 1.33×10⁻⁸ m² to 1.33×10⁻⁶ m²; 4.42×10⁻⁹ m² to 6.62×10⁻⁷ m²; and7.85×10⁻⁸ m² to 4.52×10⁻⁷ m².
 18. The resealable packaging device ofclaim 16, wherein the first flexible base film is heat sealed to the topedge of the container.
 19. A resealable packaging device, comprising: afirst flexible base film, designed for heat sealing, including anopening that is formed in a desired shape, wherein the opening isexposed when a second flexible base film is peeled away from the firstflexible base film; one or more atmospheric control attributes in theflexible base films, wherein the first and second flexible base filmsare bonded together via a pressure sensitive adhesive allowing thesecond flexible base film to be peeled away from the first flexible basefilm; the one or more atmospheric control attributes, configured as aperforation, providing the flexible base films a total open area of1.5×10⁻¹¹ m² to 1.5×10⁻⁻⁴ m² and having a length dimension thatpenetrates through the second flexible base film in communication withthe opening of the first flexible base film; wherein the pressuresensitive adhesive is a respiratory condensate resistant adhesive thatin conjunction with the atmospheric control attributes, provides atransmission rate based on units of grams per 100 square inches per dayof 0.01 or higher for water vapor content present in an interioratmosphere of the resealable packaging device; a container configuredwith a base section connected to one or more side wall sections forminga storage structure having an open top edge for connecting with thefirst flexible base film, wherein the first flexible base film inconnection with the top edge forms an inner surface defining anenclosure within which the interior atmosphere can be provided and foodproduct can be stored and an outer surface in contact with an exteriorenvironment; and wherein the atmospheric control attributes provides theenclosure, when the opening is not exposed, an oxygen transmission ratebetween the interior atmosphere and exterior environment of at least 50cc/100-sq inch/day which allows respiration of the food product packagedwithin the enclosure and maintenance of the interior atmosphere with anO₂ content of ≥0.5%, CO₂ content of ≥1% and relative humidity of ≥60%during at least a portion of the food product life-cycle within theenclosure.
 20. The resealable packaging device of claim 19, wherein thetotal open area provided by the atmospheric control attributes rangesfrom at least one of 7.85×10⁻⁹ m² to 7.85×10⁻⁷ m²; 1.33×10⁻⁸ m² to1.33×10⁻⁶ m²; 4.42×10⁻⁹ m² to 6.62×10⁻⁷ m²; and 7.85×10⁻⁸ m² to4.52×10⁻⁷ m².